/■ 


>- 
on 
< 
z 

tn 

-J 
< 
u 

o 

-J 

o 

UJ 

X 

UJ    q: 

X    ^ 

u. 
O 

>- 

< 
or 


>■ 

z 

ffl 

. 

Q 

z 

hi 

0 

\- 

1- 

Z 

liJ 

UJ 

u 

en 

z 

UJ 

q: 

Q. 


GQ 

B 
cd 

•H 
H 

H 

•P 

?-: 
CD 

O 


> 

<D 
Pd 

o 

0 

OS 
-P 

CQ 

w 

EH 


0) 
Pi 

B 
(0 

o 

43 
•H 

U 

< 


O 


(D 


in 

o 

^o^ 

-p     1 

<J>    W  rH 

f^ 

^    CD     1 

^    ! 

a»  fH  in 

in  ^  vo 

0 

O  00 

£ 

X    C  rH 

O      , 

PQ  « 

O 

\Vlf-f-fA(v/ 


r^ 

^.      ■- 

ES^pP^  i 

i  ai 

^bBHhe^m        ^gF 

fa|  %Ji 

1*: 

Y  ^-^  1 

1   m      ^ 

II 

'  .^•'■NtJ^l 

illl 

■j 

Blm  i^fcii'^ 

1^  j^...  JEi^Q 

■HRpi^^IHH 

pB^^                 /jm9 

Hfea|jgg^^^S^>^^- 

^,  ^^i'illhS*^'" TMilJwiriiif  ^ 

M 

COME  UNTO  ME,  ALL  YE  THAT  TRAVAIL  AND 
ARE  HEAVY  LADEN,  AND  I  WILL 
GIVE  YOU  REST." 


Come  IHnto  flDe 

A  MANUAL  OF 

Instructions  and  Devotions 

FOR 

CONFIRMATION 

HOLY  COMMUNION 

AND 

OTHER   OCCASIONS 


WRITTEN   AND   COMPILED   BY 
THE    REVEREND       ,' 

ARCHIBALD  CAMPBELL' KNOWLES 

author  of 

"the  triumph  of  the  cross,"  "the  belief  and 

worship  of  the  anglican  church,"  etc. 


NEW  YORK 
E.  P.  DUTTON  &  COMPANY 

31   WEST  TWENTY-THIRD  STREET 


Copyright,  1901,  by 
ARCHIBALD  CAMPBELL  KNOWLES 


TO 

THE  GLORY  OF  GOD 

AND 

IN   HONOUR 

OF  THE 

MOST    COMFORTABLE   SACRAMENT 

OF  THE 

BODY  AND  BLOOD 

OF 

CHRIST 


111 


AUTHOR'S   PREFACE 


THIS  little  book  was  written  and  compiled  by 
a  Priest  of  the  Church  to  be  a  practical 
Manual  of  Devotion,  containing  prayers 
for  Confirmation,  Holy  Communion,  and  all  or- 
dinary occasions.  It  pretends  to  no  literary  or 
theological  excellence.  It  aims  to  supplant  no 
books  of  a  similar  character.  Its  sole  object  is 
to  present  in  a  clear  and  comprehensive  way 
such  Instructions  and  Devotions  as  may  tend  to 
the  right  reception  of  Confirmation  and  Holy 
Communion,  may  be  helpful  in  the  cultivation 
of  the  spiritual  life,  and  may  form  a  Manual 
for  daily  use,  at  once  condensed  yet  complete. 
It  is  frequently  due  to  a  lack  of  knowledge  of 
the  Church  and  of  her  doctrine,  discipline  and 
worship  that  many  persons  who  have  started  out 
in  the  spiritual  life  lapse  into  unbelief  and  mis- 
belief. They  have  never  properly  been  taught 
the  fundamentals  of  the  Faith  and  so  readily 
follow  those  who  are  '''' teaching  for  doctrines 
the  comtnandmejits  of  men.''''  They  have  never 
realized  the  importance  of  a  positive,  definite 
belief,  without  which  it  is  impossible  to  live  a 
right  life  or  attain  to  the  full  measure  of  spirit- 
ual development.  It  is  indeed  most  necessary 
to  be  mentally  and  spiritually  equipped  for  the 
fight  against  "the  world,  the  flesh, and  the  devil." 


Vi  AUTHOR'S   PREFACE 

From  his  own  experience  and  from  the  com- 
ments of  others  of  the  Clergy  and  Laity,  the 
Author  believes  that  there  is  large  room  for  a 
work  that  will  help  in  this  respect.  There  are 
of  course  others  now  in  use,  but  many  people 
find  them  above  their  understanding  or  incapa- 
ble of  satisfying  their  spiritual  needs  or  alien  to 
the  Anglican  mind.  In  the  preparation  of  this 
present  book,  the  Author,  while  trying  to  avoid 
any  narrow  conception  of  the  Church,  has  aimed 
to  have  both  the  Instructions  and  the  Devotions 
in  thorough  accord  with  the  spirit  of  the  Book 
of  Common  Prayer  and  the  teaching  of  Holy 
Scripture.  In  drawing  from  outside  sources,  the 
Ancient  Liturgies  have  been  mainly  consulted, 
as  they  are  perfect  treasure-houses  of  devotion, 
and  represent  the  spiritual  character  of  the 
Church  most  near  its  Source.  These  prayers, 
however,  have  been  very  freely  adapted,  partly 
because  of  their  rather  florid  expressions,  hardly 
suitable  to  the  Western  mind,  partly  in  order  to 
ensure  a  more  rhythmical  measure,  which  the 
original  Greek  or  Latin  loses  in  a  literal  trans- 
lation into  English,  The  thought,  however,  has 
been  preserved  throughout. 

In  many  cases  the  Devotions  will  be  found 
more  full  and  numerous  than  may  be  required, 
but  it  seems  better  to  minister  to  the  needs  of 
those  well  on  in  the  spiritual  life,  as  others 
may  easily  omit  what  they  find  burdensome  or 
unnecessary,  a  possibility  provided  for  in  the 
arrangement  of  the  contents.  The  Author  has 
not  knowingly  used  any  copyright  matter,  hav- 
ing taken  special  care  to  guard  against  this,  with 
the  exception  of  several  Eucharistic  Hymns,  for 
the  use  of  which  he  most  cordially  thanks  the 
Authors  and    Publishers.     He   also   takes   this 


author's  pre^face  vii 

opportunity  of  expressing  his  appreciation  of 
the  kindness  of  the  Right  Reverend  Isaac  Lea 
Nicholson,  S.T.D.,  Bishop  of  Milwaukee,  and 
the  Reverend  Samuel  Upjohn,  D.D.,  Rector  of 
S.  Luke's  Church,  Germantown,  Philadelphia, 
in  examining  and  approving  this  work  and 
making  many  valuable  suggestions  as  to  the 
same. 

The  Author  therefore  gives  this  modest  mes- 
sage to  the  Church,  praying  God  for  Christ  His 
Sake,  to  pardon  all  that  may  be  imperfect  and 
bless  all  that  may  be  good,  leading  many  souls 
to  a  closer  walk  with  Him  through  the  "  Most 
Comfortable  Sacrament  of  the  Body  and  Blood 
of  Christ." 

Philadelphia,  Lent,  1901. 


CONTENTS 


PART    I 
INSTRUCTIONS  AND  EXPLANATIONS 

PAGE 

The  Church,  its  Institution  and  Growth  .  i 
The  Ancient  Church  .....  2 
The  Mediaeval  Church  .  .  .  .6 
The  Reformation  .....  8 
The  Anglican  Church  ....       9 

The  Church  in  America      .         .         .         .     i6 

77/<?  Liturgy 

Historical  Sketch  of  the  Liturgy  .  .     l8 

Explanation  of  the  Service  .  .  .22 

Ritual  and  Ceremonial        .  .  .  .33 

How  to  Make  a  Reverent  Communion  .  38 
The  Church  Catechism        .  ,  .  .42 

The  Christian  Covenant  or  Baptismal  Vow  43 
The  Creed,  its  History  and  Meaning  .  .  44 
The  Ten  Commandments  .  .         .  .57 

The  Lord's  Prayer  .  .  .  .  .58 
The  Sacraments  .         .         .         .         .62 

Holy  Baptism     ......     63 


IX 


X                                   CONTENTS 

PAGE 

Confirmation       .... 

•        64 

Holy  Communion 

.        65 

Penitence  ..... 

.        72 

Contrition  ..... 

.     75 

Confession  and  Absolution 

.     76 

Amendment        .... 

.     79 

PART    II 
DEVOTIONS    FOR    HOLY   COMMUNION 

Prayers  before  Self  Examination  .  .85 
Form  of  Self  Examination  .         .         .88 

Confession  and  Prayers  .  .  .  .92 
Devotions  before  Holy  Communion  .  .  98 
Service  of  Holy  Communion,  with  Private 

Prayers         ......    106 

Thanksgiving  after  the  Service    .         .         .130 
Thanksgiving  to  be  Said  at  Night        .         .   132 
Ancient  Form  of  Thanksgiving  .         .         .   135 
Additional  Devotions  ....   141 

Eucharistic  Hymns     .  .  .         *         .    152 

A  Longer  Form  of  Self  Examination  .  159 
A  Short    Form   of    Preparation   for    Holy 

Communion  .         .         .         .         .178 

PART    III 
DAILY  PRAYERS,  OCCASIONAL  OFFICES,  ETC. 

Practice  of  Daily  Prayers  ....  185 
Morning  Prayers,  First  Form     .         .         .186 


CONTENTS 


XI 


PAGE 

Midday  Prayers,  First  Form       .         .         .   i88 
Evening  Prayers,  First  Form       .  .  .   190 

Additional  Prayers      .....   192 

The  Third  Hour  :  from  Ancient  Sources    .   195 
The  Sixth  Hour  :  from  Ancient  Sources    .   197 
The  Ninth  Hour  :  from  Ancient  Sources    .   199 
Short  Silent  Prayers   .....  201 

Office  of  Intercession  ....  204 

Prayers  before  a  Journey    ....  208 

Preparations  for  Confirmation     .  .         .211 

A  Form  of  Confession        .         .         .         .214 

Office  of  Spiritual  Communion  .         .         .216 
Meditations  on  the  Holy  Communion         .  218 
Penitential  Offices       .....  236 

Penitential  Prayers     .....  237 

Litany  of  Penitence   .....   241 

Hymn  of  the  Passion  ....  243 

Short  Readings  ......  245 

The  Church's  Seasons         ....   255 

Appendix  of  Christian  Virtues,  Duties,  etc.  262 


ILLUSTRATIONS 


OPPOSITE 
PAGE 


"  Come  unto  Me,  all  ye  that  travail,  and  are 
heavy  laden,  and  I  will  give  you  rest." 

Frontispiece. 
'•  A  little  child  shall  lead  them  "        .         .       iS 
"  They  fell  dow^n  and  worshipped  Him  "  .       38 
"Watch  and  pray  that  ye  enter  not  into 

temptation "  .  .  .  .  •  5S 
"  Behold,  I  stand  at  the  door  and  knock."  70 
"Behold,  and  see  if  there  be  any  sorrow 

like  unto  My  sorrow "         .  .  .96 

"  I  Died  on  the  cross  for  thee  ;  What  hast 

thou  done  for  Me  ?" .         .         .         .     122 

"O,  come  all  ye  faithful,  O,  come  let  us 

adore  Him "       .         .         .         .         .152 

' '  I  am  the  Good  Shepherd  :  the  Good 
Shepherd  giveth  His  Life  for  the 
sheep" 188 

"  He  toucheth  the  cross,    and  maketh  it 

light" 246 


xni 


part  II 

Unstructtons 

on  tbe 

Cburcb,  tbe  Xiturgp,  tbe 

Catecbism,  ant)  pcnU 

tence 


THE  CHURCH 


THERE  is  no  more  wonderful  record  in  his- 
tory than  that  of  the  institution,  organiz- 
ation and  growth  of  the  Holy  Catholic 
Church.  Nor  could  a  greater  contrast  be  pre- 
sented than  that  between  the  small  body  of  men 
and  women,  of  humble  birth  and  little  learning, 
who  constituted  the  first  followers  of  our  Lord, 
and  the  wide-spreading  Religion  of  Jesus  Christ 
to-day,  professed  if  not  faithfully  followed  by 
every  civilized  nation.  The  Christian  Religion 
has  been  the  greatest  power  in  the  advancement 
of  the  world,  the  inspiration  to  all  that  is  best  in 
man,  the  secret  of  the  elevation  and  progress  of 
the  human  race.  No  greater  argument  could 
there  be  for  the  supernatural  character  of  the 
Church  than  this  continuance  and  growth  for 
nineteen  centuries  in  every  race  and  condition 
of  men,  often  in  the  face  of  fearful  persecution. 
This  fact  exemplifies  the  claim  of  the  Church  to 
be  the  Divine  Institution  of  Jesus  Christ,  His 
Mystical  Body,  guided  by  the  Holy  Ghost  and 
endowed  with  special  spiritual  powers.  Only 
under  an  Organization  so  constituted  could  have 
been  accomplished  so  wonderful  a  work  and 
have  been  overruled  for  good  the  actions  of 
wicked  men  within  and  without  the  fold.  It 
may  not  be  unfruitful,  therefore,  to  sketch  very 


2  THEi  CHURCH 

briefly  some  of  the  most  important  periods  and 
features  of  the  history,  growth,  and  development 
of  the  Church. 


THE  ANCIENT  CHURCH 

The  Apostolic  Church,  33=98  ad.*   The 

first  picture  of  the  Church  is  that  of  the  little 
group  of  Apostles  and  Disciples,  about  one 
hundred  and  twenty  in  number,'  which  gathered 
together  in  the  upper  room  at  Jerusalem  after 
our  Lord's  Ascension,  Upon  the  Descent  of 
the  Holy  Ghost  on  Whitsunday,  the  twelve 
Apostles  (S.  Matthias  now  being  numbered  with 
the  eleven),  full  of  missionary  zeal,  started  to 
fulfil  Christ's  command  to  preach  the  Gospel 
to  all  people,  first  offering  it  to  the  Jews,  then  to 
the  Gentiles.  Holy  Scripture,  in  the  book  of  the 
Acts,  records  the  beginnings  of  their  work,  and 
shows  us  the  essential  features  of  the  Church 
Polity  which  they  established,  undoubtedly  ac- 
cording to  our  Lord's  direction.  The  Three- 
fold Ministry  of  Bishops,  Priests,  and  Deacons, 
the  Order  of  Public  Worship,  the  Forms  of 
Prayers,  the  Rites  of  Baptism  and  Confirma- 
tion, the  daily  Celebration  of  Holy  Commun- 
ion, the  Preaching  of  the  Word,  the  observance 
of  Sunday,  the  assembling  of  a  Synod,  are  all  re- 
corded as  the  work  and  appointment  of  the 
Apostles.  At  the  very  inception  of  their  labours 
are  also  seen  the  four  essential  marks  or  notes  of 
the  Catholic  Church  :  the  Apostles'  Doctrine  or 
Creed,  the  Fellowship  or  Communion  of  Saints, 
the  Breaking  of  Bread  or  Holy  Communion 
and  the  Prayej-s  or  Liturgy.  ^ 

*  These  designations  are  merely  for  clearness. 

*  Acts  i.  15.  2  Acts  ii.  42. 


THE   ANCIENT   CHURCH  3 

At  first,  while  practically  possible  and  until 
the  Fall  of  Jerusalem,  the  Apostles  continued  in 
attendance  at  worship  at  the  Jewish  Temple,^ 
for  they  realized  the  continuity  of  the  Church 
under  the  Jewish  and  Christian  Revelation. 
Their  own  services  of  daily  prayer  and  daily  Eu- 
charist, wherein  they  worshipped  Almighty  GoD 
and  set  forth  the  Faith  of  Jesus  Christ  and 
Flim  Crucified,  gave  them  the  spiritual  strength 
for  their  labours  for  their  Lord.  These  ser- 
vices they  secretly  held  in  cellars  and  upper 
rooms,  in  order  to  guard  the  Holy  Mysteries 
and  ensure  their  own  safety.  In  their  associa- 
tion, they  had  all  things  in  common,''^  not  that 
their  means  were  divided  equally,  but  that  those 
in  need  were  supported  from  a  common  fund, 
the  true  ideal  of  Christian  Charity. 

They  formed  but  a  little  band  in  the  midst  of 
millions  of  the  Jewish  and  Gentile  world.  They 
had  to  struggle  against  the  bigotry  of  those  of 
the  Jewish  Religion  who  refused  the  Revelation 
of  Christ,  the  ridicule  of  those  believing  in 
Greek  Philosophy  who  scorned  the  Faith  of  the 
Gospel,  and  the  selfishness  of  those  worshipping 
mythological  divinities  and  heathen  gods  who 
saw  their  trade  in  images  departing.  These 
classes  of  people,  together  with  the  power  of 
the  Roman  Empire,  worked  in  their  several 
ways  to  stamp  out  the  Church.  To  men  of  lit- 
tle faith  the  cause  would  have  seemed  hopeless, 
for  Religion,  Law  and  Society  as  they  then  ex- 
isted were  against  them.  Undismayed,  how- 
ever, the  Disciples  persevered  in  their  work, 
seeing  the  Church  planted  in  most  of  the  great 
centres  of  the  East  and  even  carried  to  parts  of 
the  far  distant  West,  ere  they  died  their  martyr's 
^  Acts  ii.  46.  '  Acts  ii.  44. 


4  THE  CHURCH 

death,  as  was  the  fate  of  all  but  S.  John. 

The  Primitive  Church,   98=300.      The 

successors  of  the  Apostles,  with  similar  love 
and  zeal,  continued  the  work  so  well  begun. 
Many  of  them  perished  in  the  great  persecutions 
of  Christians  which  occurred  at  intervals.  In 
the  face  of  dreadful  privation  and  suffering  they 
strengthened  and  extended  the  Church.  They 
built  up  great  religious  centres,  established 
schools  of  Theology,  and  founded  the  Monastic 
Life.  Some  as  hermits  sought  the  desert  places 
for  prayer,  penance  and  literary  labour.  The 
region  of  the  Nile  was  a  favourite  spot.  There 
in  the  solemn  stillness  of  the  night  they  thought 
of  God,  or  in  the  day  saw  far  below  them  the  evi- 
dences of  busy  life,  no  sounds  of  which  dis- 
turbed the  dreamy  silence  of  their  solitude. 
Others  in  Monasteries  planted  the  seeds  which 
were  to  preserve  learning,  spread  civilization 
and  incite  holiness  in  later  ages.  Still  others 
went  as  missionaries  to  far  distant  lands  to  teach 
those  in  darkness  the  light  of  the  Gospel.  The 
Fathers,  S.  Ignatius,  S.  Ireneus,  S.  Polycarp,  S. 
Clement,  S.  Cyprian  and  Justin  Martyr,  and  S. 
Anthony  the  Hermit  are  some  of  the  great 
names  of  this  period. 

The  Post=Nicene  Church.  The  fourth 
century  saw  the  triumph  of  the  Cross,  and  the 
end  of  the  great  persecutions,  in  the  conversion 
in  312  A.D.,  of  Constantine  the  Great,  the  Roman 
Emperor.  The  power  and  influence  of  Im- 
perial Rome  aided  considerably  to  spread 
the  Faith  and  establish  the  Religion  of  Jesus 
Christ.    It  was  the  time  of  organization.    The 


THK  ANCIENT  CHURCH  5 

Liturgies  were  put  into  writing  and  the  ceremo- 
nial of  worship  was  developed.  The  Scriptures 
were  collected  and  the  canonical  books  deter- 
mined. New  and  splendid  churches  were  built, 
and  the  wealth  which  came  to  the  Church  from 
its  rich  converts  was  used  in  providing  for  the 
needs  of  religion. 

New  troubles  however  succeeded  the  old. 
During  the  early  days  of  the  Church  errors  had 
arisen,  but  no  conciliar  action  was  taken.  Now 
however,  as  other  heresies  spread,  especially 
those  regarding  the  One  Person  and  Two  Na- 
tures of  Christ,  General  or  CEcumenical  Coun- 
cils were  held  to  condemn  false  teaching  and  to 
determine  matters  of  doctrine  and  discipline. 
Six  of  these  Councils  were  in  the  highest  sense 
CEcumenical,  that  is,  they  were  Councils  at 
which  all  parts  of  the  Church  were  represented, 
whose  decrees  were  accepted  and  ratified  by  the 
whole  Church.  These  six  Councils  are  those  of 
Nicaea,  325  a.d.,  at  which  the  Arian  heresy  was 
condemned  and  the  Nicene  Creed  drawn  up  to 
the  end  of  the  words,  "  I  believe  in  the  Holy 
Ghost";  Constantinople,  381  a.d.,  when  the 
rest  of  the  Creed  was  added  ;  Ephesus,  434  A.D., 
Chalcedon,  451  a.d.,  Constantinople,  553  A.D., 
and  Constantinople,  6S0  A.D. 

These  were  the  times  of  the  great  Fathers  or 
Doctors  of  the  Church,  the  writers  and  wit- 
nesses of  the  Faith,  of  whom  may  be  mentioned: 
the  Greek  Fathers,  S.  Athanasius,  S.  Chrysos- 
tom,  S.  Basil  and  S,  Gregory  of  Nazianzum  and 
the  Latin  Fathers,  S.  Augustine,  S.  Ambrose, 
S.  Jerome  and  S.  Leo  the  Great.  The  great 
Bishoprics  w-ere  independent  of  each  other,  but 
united  in  a  common  Faith,  Rome,  Alexandria, 
Antioch  and  later  Constantinople  being  looked 


6  THE  CHURCH 

upon  as  the  great  Patriarchates  entitled  to  special 
honour,  representing  European,  Asiatic,  and 
African  divisions  of  the  Empire.  During  this 
period  new  disturbances  to  the  Church  came 
from  the  quarrels  and  jealousies  of  some  in  high 
places,  from  the  worldliness  of  others,  and  from 
the  frequent  inroads  of  the  barbarian  races 
from  the  north  and  east.  These  last  did  great 
injury  to  Church  and  State,  finally  accomplish- 
ing the  fall  of  the  Roman  Empire  in  the  West. 
These  races  later  became  Christian. 

II 

THE  MEDI/EVAL  CHURCH 

With  the  fall  of  the  Western  Empire  and  the 
rise  of  the  nations  somewhat  as  they  now  are, 
the  Churches  within  national  boundaries  became 
more  strictly  national  Churches,  though  care- 
fully preserving  the  unity  of  the  Catholic  Faith. 
Gradually  however  the  Eastern  and  Western 
Churches  drew  away  from  one  another,  their 
differences  finally  ending  in  the  great  schism 
of  the  nth  Century,  never  since  healed,  though 
repeated  attempts  have  been  made  at  reunion. 
This  schism  was  due  partly  to  political,  partly  to 
religious  differences,  in  the  rivalry  between  Rome 
and  Constantinople,  in  the  Image  Controversy 
and  in  the  insertion  in  the  Creed  of  the  clause 
teaching  the  Double  Procession  of  the  Holy 
Ghost.  Images  had  not  at  first  been  used  for 
fear  of  copying  the  idolatry  of  the  heathen. 
Later,  painting  and  sculpture  were  introduced 
as  an  aid  in  arousing  devotion.  When  in  the 
8th  Century  the  Emperor  decreed  the  destruc- 
tion  of  all  Images,   dreadful   acts   of  sacrilege 


THE  MEDI^VAI,  CHURCH  7 

were  committed  and  bitter  feuds  engendered  by 
the  Iconoclasts  or  Image-breakers.  The  con- 
troversy ended  in  the  sanctioning  the  use  of 
Images,  under  proper  regulations,  by  the  Council 
of  Nic£ea  in  786,  its  decrees,  however,  being  con- 
siderably modified  by  the  Western  Council  held 
at  Frankfort  in  794.  In  the  matter  of  the 
Double  Procession  of  the  HoLY  Ghost,  the 
East  objected  to  the  words  "  and  the  Son  "  after 
the  words  "proceeded  from  the  Father"  being 
introduced  into  the  Creed  without  proper  au- 
thority. Though  the  point  is  well  taken,  the 
teaching  is  Scriptural  and  probably  does  not 
really  differ  from  the  doctrine  held  in  the  East. 
The  INIiddle  Ages  also  saw  the  rise  of  the  Pa- 
pacy, the  Bishops  of  Rome  arrogating  authority 
and  powers  utterly  unscriptural  and  never 
claimed  in  ancient  times,  leading  to  evils  and 
abuses  which  cannot  be  exaggerated.  The  ex- 
ercise of  Papal  powers,  however,  wrong  as  they 
were,  did,  under  God,  do  much  to  preserve  re- 
ligion and  keep  in  check  stubborn  rulers  and 
peoples  during  these  troublous  times.  In  the 
hands  of  an  holy  man,  it  was  possible  to  use  this 
power  for  good,  but  when  wielded  by  a  wicked 
or  ambitious  Pope,  it  was  harmful  beyond  meas- 
ure. Portions  of  this  period  have  been  called 
the  Dark  Ages,  but  the  movements  within  and 
without  the  Church  were  so  varied,  and  good 
and  evil  so  mingled,  that  it  is  difficult  to  apply 
the  term  correctly.  The  purity  of  life  and  doc- 
trine had  undoubtedly  become  corrupted.  The 
lives  of  the  Popes  and  of  others  in  high  places 
were  scandalous.  Evil  doing  was  general  and 
war  was  continually  waged.  The  growth  of  the 
Monastic  Orders,  the  institution  of  the  Preach- 
ing Friars  and  the  Crusades  were  movements 


8  the;  church 

fraught  with  mixed  good  and  evil.  Yet  there 
was  far  more  real  religion  and  true  piety  in 
many  quarters  than  is  sometimes  imagined,  and 
it  is  very  likely  that  the  spiritual  welfare  of 
the  masses  was  tetter  cared  for  than  is  now  the 
case.  Nor  should  it  be  overlooked  that  the 
greatest  achievements  of  Art  and  Architecture 
were  accomplished  during  the  Middle  Ages. 
Painting  and  Sculpture  reached  their  height, 
Christian  Art  attaining  its  highest  expression. 
Architecture  flourished,  the  beauty,  the  ma- 
jesty, the  mystery  of  the  Pointed  or  Gothic 
Style  reaching  its  greatest  development.  Only 
under  the  impulse  and  inspiration  of  religion 
could  this  have  been  done.  Scholarship  and 
learning  also  received  new  strength  from  the 
writings  and  studies  of  the  Schoolmen,  such  as 
S.  Thomas  Aquinas,  Peter  Lombard,  and  others. 
Altogether  it  was  a  time  of  varied  movement 
and  mingled  good  and  evil. 

Ill 

THE  REFORMATION 

The  Reformation  was  due  to  a  number  of 
causes.  Even  at  this  date  it  is  impossible  fairly 
to  estimate  their  relative  influence  and  import- 
ance. The  breaking  up  of  the  feudal  system, 
the  general  feeling  of  unrest,  the  realization  of 
power  among  the  masses,  all  tended  to  the  rebel- 
lion against  authority  as  then  exercised.  Cor- 
ruption in  doctrine,  superstition  in  worship,  and 
abuses  in  discipline  showed  the  need  of  reform, 
wdiich  Councils,  assembled  for  that  purpose, 
seemed  unable  to  accomplish.  The  denial  of  the 
Chalice  to  the  laity,   which  custom,   spreading 


THE  REFORMATION  9 

slowly,  had  been  sanctioned  at  the  Council  of 
Constance  in  141 5,  was  felt  to  be  a  great  de- 
privation. Yet  there  can  be  little  doubt  that 
the  main  causes  of  the  Reformation  were  the 
awful  scandals  and  abuses  of  the  Papacy,  and  the 
iniquitous  traffic  in  pardons,  indulgences  and 
masses.  Martin  Luther,  a  monk  at  Erfurt, 
lighted  the  torch  that  set  all  of  Europe  ablaze, 
and  resulted  in  the  great  religious  upheaval  of 
the  sixteenth  century,  a  movement  that  swept 
away  much  that  was  evil  but  also  much  that  was 
good.  Political  war  followed  religious  contro- 
versy, the  stubborn  opposition  of  the  Papacy  to 
reform  and  the  hasty  action  of  the  reformers 
leading  to  woful  rents  in  the  Body  of  Christ. 
When  peace  came  after  long  and  desolating 
wars,  the  Continental  Reformation  left  Western 
Europe  divided  between  the  Roman  Church, 
which  had  in  the  meantime  partially  reformed 
herself  at  the  Council  of  Trent,  and  numberless 
Protestant  bodies,  which  had  lost  Apostolic  Or- 
der and  had  drifted  away  from  the  ancient  Faith. 
To-day  the  Eastern,  Anglican  and  Roman  Com- 
munions, though  outwardly  separated  from  each 
other,  have  invisible  union  through  Christ,  as 
the  Church  Catholic,  agreeing  in  the  essentials 
of  the  Faith,  while  about  them  are  many  sect- 
arian organizations  without  valid  Ministry  or 
vSacraments,  and  ever  multiplying  as  new  quar- 
rels still  further  divide  them. 

IV 

THE  ANGLICAN  CHURCH 

The  Ancient    Church    in    the    British 
Isles.      At  what  time  and  by  whom  Christianity 


lO  THE  CHURCH 

was  planted  in  Ancient  Britain,  now  called 
England,  is  not  known.  The  establishment  of 
the  Church  there  has  been  variously  attributed 
to  S.  Paul,  to  S.  Joseph  of  Arimathea  and  oth- 
ers, but  there  is  no  reliable  evidence  to  support 
any  special  claim.  The  Church  was  probably 
introduced  from  France,  then  known  as  Gaul, 
late  in  the  first  or  early  in  the  second  century, 
as  British  Bishops  were  either  present  at  Early 
Councils  or  gave  assent  to  their  decrees.  The 
Sees  of  London,  York  and  Lincoln  were  very 
early  founded,  but  the  Church  was  not  strong, 
as  instanced  in  sending  to  the  Galilean  Church 
for  Germanus  and  Lupus  to  help  stamp  out  the 
Pelagian  heresy.  It  could  boast,  however,  of 
one  of  the  first  martyrs,  S.  Alban.  In  Ireland 
Christianity  is  said  to  have  been  early  intro- 
dwced,  but  it  is  to  the  great  S.  Patrick  that  the 
Church  there  owed  its  establishment  in  the  5th 
Century.  Through  the  Irish  Missions,  Scotland 
in  turn  received  Christianity.  With  the  inva- 
sion of  Britain  in  the  5th  Century  by  the  Anglo- 
Saxons,  the  ancient  British  Church  was  driven 
into  Wales  and  Cornwall,  where  it  existed,  cut 
off  from  the  rest  of  the  Christian  world. 

The  Anglo=Saxon  Church.  No  notable 
attempt  was  made  to  convert  the  Anglo-Saxons 
until  597,  when  Gregory  the  Great,  Bishop  of 
Rome,  sent  Augustine  and  his  Monks  to  Britain. 
Carrying  the  Cross  and  chanting  the  Litany  they 
landed  on  the  southern  coast  of  England,  near 
Canterbury.  Not  long  afterwards  Ethelbert 
the  King  of  Kent,  was  converted  and  baptized 
with  many  of  his  followers,  and  Augustine  ap- 
plying to  the  Galilean  Church  for  consecration 
was  made  the  Archbishop  of  the  English,  with 


THE   ANGIvICAN   CHURCH  II 

his  Cathedral  at  Canterbury.  Minor  differences 
prevented  Augustine  and  the  remnant  of  the 
Ancient  British  Church  from  working  together. 
Consequently  Augustine  and  his  clergy  only  suc- 
ceeded in  planting  the  Church  in  the  southern 
part  of  the  country,  the  northern  kingdoms  of 
the  Anglo-Saxons  being  converted  largely 
through  the  efforts  of  the  Scotch-Irish  Monks 
of  lona  and  Lindisfarne,  two  great  religious 
foundations,  tracing  their  origin  to  S.  Patrick, 
when  Ireland  was  known  as  "The  Isle  of  the 
vSaints."  In  the  missionary  labours  of  the 
Church,  the  names  of  S.  Columba,  S.  Aidan,  S. 
Chad  and  S.  Cuthbert  will  ever  be  remembered. 
The  Church  steadily  prospered,  and  in  the  sev- 
enth century,  in  the  time  of  Theodore,  the  iVrch- 
bishop  of  Canterbury,  was  fully  organized  and 
known  far  and  wide  as  the  Church  of  England. 

The  Mediaeval  Church  of  England.     In 

1066  the  Norman  Conquest  changed  many 
of  the  conditions  of  both  Church  and  country. 
The  Normans  were  a  wonderful  people,  ener- 
getic and  progressive.  Originally  Northmen, 
by  their  occupation  of  that  portion  of  France 
since  known  as  Normandy,  and  by  their  inter- 
marriage with  the  people  there,  they  became  one 
of  the  most  highly  civilized  races  of  the  west. 
Their  love  of  architecture  and  organization,  their 
cultivation  of  learning  and  the  fine  arts  made  a 
great  impression  on  the  English  Church  and 
people.  Yet  while  the  outward  glory  of  the 
Church  increased,  the  Faith,  while  being  essen- 
tially maintained,  became  overgrown  with  cor- 
rupt superstitions  and  practices,  and  the  morals 
of  many  became  lowered  with  worldly  living. 
The  continual  efforts  of  the  Papacy  to  dominate 


12  THE   CHURCH 

and  rule  both  the  English  Church  and  the  Eng- 
lish people  achieved  partial  success  during  this 
period,  but  never  to  the  extent  that  obtained 
on  the  Continent  of  Europe.  The  Middle  Ages 
consequently  saw  England  with  the  rest  of 
Europe  ripe  for  reformation. 

The  Reformation  in  England.  This 
practically  began  in  the  sixteenth  century  when 
the  revival  of  Greek  literature  showed  how  far 
the  Church  had  corrupted  Apostolic  faith  and 
practice.  Unlike  the  movements  on  the  Conti- 
nent, which  resulted  in  the  formation  of  Protest- 
ant bodies,  the  Reformation  in  England  was 
one  in  which  the  Church  purified  herself  in  a 
lawful  and  canonical  manner,  doing  away  with 
what  was  wrong  in  teaching  and  superstitious 
in  practice.  The  work  of  the  Reformation 
found  its  occasion  in  the  refutation  of  the  polit- 
ical usurpation  of  the  Papacy,  both  the  State 
and  the  Church  rejecting  all  interference  in  their 
affairs  by  the  Church  and  Court  of  Rome.  From 
this  action  on  the  part  of  the  Church  of  England 
came  the  reformation  in  doctrine  and  practice, 
which  looked  to  the  purification  of  worship  and 
to  the  uplifting  of  the  morals  of  the  people. 

As  in  all  such  movements  some  evil  came 
with  the  good.  With  the  errors  swept  away 
were  also  carried  many  pious  beliefs  and  devout 
practices  which,  while  not  matters  of  faith,  were 
spiritually  helpful.  The  wholesale  spoliation 
and  demolition  of  the  Monasteries,  and  the  turn- 
ing adrift  of  their  inmates  upon  the  world,  to 
gratify  the  covetous  greed  of  King  and  Nobles 
is  a  dark  spot  in  the  history  of  the  English  Re- 
formation. A  judicious  purification  would  have 
done  away  with  such  evils  as  existed,  and  would 


THE   ANGUCAN   CHURCH  1 3 

have  made  the  Church  of  England  far  stronger 
and  better  equipped  for  work  at  the  present 
day. 

The  efforts  at  reform  were  greatly  retarded 
by  the  difficulty  of  reconciling  the  differences  of 
the  Reformers,  some  of  whom  aimed  to  preserve 
the  Apostolic  teaching  and  character  of  the 
Church,  others,  known  as  Puritans,  striving  un- 
der the  plea  of  "  simplicity  in  worship  "  to  sub- 
stitute private  opinions  and  preferences  for  the 
teaching  and  institutions  of  the  Church.  The 
translation  of  the  Bible  and  Liturgy  into  Eng- 
lish, the  remodelling  of  the  Service  Books,  the 
ordering  of  the  Offices  to  be  said  "in  a  tongue 
understanded  of  the  people,"  the  purification  of 
ceremonial,  and  the  elevation  of  the  morals  will 
stand  as  the  best  and  most  enduring  witnesses  of 
the  good  accomplished  by  the  English  Re- 
formation. 

Since  those  days  the  Church  has  weathered 
many  storms  :  the  persecution  under  Queen 
Mary,  the  overthrow  of  the  Kingdom  and  of 
Episcopacy  by  Cromwell,  and  the  evils  conse- 
quent to  the  revolution.  Upon  the  restoration 
of  Church  and  State,  the  work  of  reform  con- 
tinued, the  movement  virtually  ending  with  the 
publication  of  the  Prayer  Book  of  1662.  Among 
those  who  at  different  times  most  ably  advo- 
cated Catholic  teaching  may  be  mentioned 
Archbishop  Laud,  Jeremy  Taylor,  George  Her- 
bert, Pearson,  Thomas  Ken,  Hooker,  and 
Lancelot  Andrewes,  generally  known  as  the  Car- 
oline Divines,  whose  writings  and  saintly  lives 
did  much  for  the  Church. 

The  Church  in  Later  Days.  The  eight- 
eenth  century   found   the  religious  life  of  the 


14  THE  CHURCH 

Church  in  a  state  of  apathy,  consequent  upon 
the  latitudinarian  teaching  of  the  period.  The 
lack  of  religion,  reverence,  morality,  and  per- 
sonal piety  is  sad  to  contemplate  and  the  records 
of  the  condition  of  churches  and  the  observance 
of  the  services  are  hard  to  believe.  The  move- 
ment started  by  John  and  Charles  Wesley  in 
the  latter  part  of  the  eighteenth  century  accom- 
plished some  good  but  unfortunately  resulted  in 
a  schism,  in  the  formation  of  the  Methodist  body. 
Later,  the  Evangelical  Revival  succeeded  in 
stimulating  personal  piety,  its  weakness  being 
found  in  the  failure  to  teach  in  a  definite,  positive 
manner,  in  the  lack  of  proportion  in  the  pre- 
sentation of  great  truths,  and  in  the  neglect  of 
the  Sacraments. 

The  greatest  power  for  good  arose  early  in 
the  nineteenth  century  in  the  Catholic  Revival, 
called  the  Tractarian  or  Oxford  Movement.  It 
resulted  in  the  strongest  stimulation  of  the  spir- 
itual life  that  the  Church  of  England  has  seen 
since  the  Reformation.  It  received  its  inspira- 
tion from  the  publication  in  1827,  of  John  Keble's 
"  Christian  Year."  This  was  followed  in  1833 
by  the  publication  of  a  series  of  papers,  at  first 
brief,  then  more  lengthy,  called  "  Tracts  for  the 
Times,"  written  by  a  group  of  Oxford  men  noted 
for  their  learning  and  piety,  among  them  being 
John  Henry  Newman,  Keble,  Isaac  Williams, 
Rose,  Froude,  and  later  on  Dr.  Pusey.  The 
object  was  to  awaken  the  Church  to  the  realiza- 
tion of  her  Apostolic  heritage,  of  her  Divinely 
given  Authority,  and  of  the  precious  privileges 
within  her  reach.  The  Tracts  continued  until 
1840,  the  movement  constantly  growing  in 
strength.  It  was  however  largely  misunder- 
stood.      There    was    open    hostility   in    many 


THE   ANGI^ICAN  CHURCH  1 5 

quarters.  The  originators  were  vilified.  Con- 
troversy raged  and  charges  were  made  in  the 
most  reckless  fashion.  The  Bishops  tried  to  put 
the  movement  down,  and  finally  the  storm 
broke,  and  Newman,  Faber,  and  others,  in  de- 
spair of  success,  joined  the  Roman  Communion. 
Under  the  leadership  of  the  great  Dr.  Pusey, 
who  was  loyally  supported  by  Keble,  Williams, 
Mozley,  Church  and  others,  little  by  little,  slow- 
ly but  surely,  the  party  recovered  from  this 
catastrophe  and  steadily  gained  in  strength. 
Its  principles  began  to  be  accepted.  Its  fol- 
lowers increased.  Its  position  was  established. 
Its  influence  was  felt  beyond  the  seas.  It  won 
supporters  in  high  places,  among  the  Bishops,  in 
Parliament  and  at  the  Bar.  First  Doctrine, 
then  Ceremonial  was  fought  for,  and  now  at  the 
beginning  of  another  century,  while  the  battle  is 
not  yet  ended,  the  Catholic  Revival  has  attained 
a  success  at  one  time  despaired  of.  In  many 
places  Apostolic  truth  is  preached  and  Catholic 
ceremonial  is  practised  in  the  purity  and  beauty 
of  ancient  days.  The  Sacraments  are  duly 
administered,  the  Eucharist  is  frequently  cele- 
brated, churches  are  properly  appointed  and 
cared  for,  worship  is  reverently  rendered,  peo- 
ple are  properly  instructed,  ecclesiastical  archi- 
tecture is  studied,  guilds  and  societies  are 
organized,  Communities  and  Sisterhoods  are 
instituted,  and  wherever  the  Catholic  Revival 
has  been  felt  there  the  Church  is  seen  in  her 
majesty  and  beauty.  Its  adherents  are  the  most 
loyal  supporters  of  the  Inspiration  and  Infalli- 
bility of  Holy  Scripture,  the  voice  of  Antiquity 
being  regarded  as  the  safest  guide  to  its  inter- 
pretation. 


l6  THE  CHURCH 


THE  CHURCH  IN  AMERICA 

The  Church  was  introduced  to  America  with 
the  planting  of  the  Colonies,  and  was  the  first 
branch  of  the  Catholic  Church  settled  in  the 
land.  Before  the  Revolution  the  work  was  car- 
ried on  by  a  few  Parish  Priests  and  private  Chap- 
lains, looking  to  the  Bishop  of  London  as  their 
Diocesan.  When  peace  followed  the  war  of  lib- 
erty, Episcopacy  was  obtained  in  the  Conse- 
cration of  Dr.  Seabury,  by  the  Bishops  of  the 
Episcopal  Church  of  Scotland.  He  was  the  first 
Bishop  of  Connecticut  and  the  first  Prelate  of  the 
American  Church.  Other  Bishops  were  gained 
in  the  Consecration  of  Dr.  White  as  Bishop 
of  Pennsylvania,  and  Dr.  Prevoost  as  Bishop 
of  New  York,  by  the  Archbishops  of  Canter- 
bury and  York,  assisted  by  the  Bishop  of  Bath 
and  W^ells,  and  the  Bishop  of  Peterborough. 
Dr.  Madison  was  shortly  afterward  Consecrated 
the  Bishop  of  Virginia.  Through  these  Bishops 
the  great  American  Church  with  over  ninety 
Bishops  and  with  several  thousand  Clergy  has 
her  Apostolic  Orders  and  Succession.  She  is 
notably  blessed  in  her  splendid  Liturgy,  in  her 
Missionary  organization,  in  her  freedom  from 
state  interference  and  in  the  spread  of  Catholic 
truth. 

To-day,  the  Anglican  Communion,  including 
those  bodies  officially  known  as  "  The  Church  of 
England,"  "  The  Protestant  Episcopal  Church  in 
the  United  States  of  America,"  "  The  Church  of 
Ireland,"  "  The  Episcopal  Church  of  Scotland," 
"  The  Church  of  England  in  the  British  Colonies 
and  Heathen  Lands,"  and  the  Foreign  Missions 


THE   CHURCH   IN   AMERICA  17 

of  the  American  Church,  stands  with  three  hun- 
dred Bishops,  many  thousands  of  Clergy  and 
many  millions  of  the  Laity  as  a  great  branch  of 
the  Catholic  Church,  having  Continuous  Descent 
from  the  Apostles.  •  happy  in  the  use  of  an  Eng- 
lish Bible  and  an  English  Liturgy,  with  Sacra- 
ments administered  as  directed  by  our  Lord 
and  holding  "the  Faith  once  delivered  to  the 
Saints"  in  its  beauty  and  purity. 

^  This  is  a  matter  of  fact,  not  a  matter  of  opinion. 


THE  LITURGY 


HISTORICAL  SKETCH  OF  THE 
LITURGY 

THE  Book  of  Common  Prayer,  as  well  as  the 
Office  of  Holy  Communion,  has  often 
been  called  our  "  Incomparable  Liturgy." 
As  a  whole,  it  is  probably  superior  to  all  others 
now  in  use,  and  is  to  be  loved,  honoured,  and 
guarded  as  our  own  special  heritage,  allowing 
us  to  worship  GOD  in  "a  tongue  understanded 
of  the  people."  In  many  ways  it  is  one  of  the 
greatest  achievements  of  the  Anglican  Church. 
At  once  dignified  and  devotional,  it  is  a  model 
of  choice  English  and  an  example  of  Catholic 
simplicity.  It  is  notably  rich,  not  only  in  pre- 
senting in  pure  form  the  Chief  Act  of  Worship 
of  the  Church,  together  with  the  Lesser  Services 
of  Morning  and  Evening  Prayer  and  the  other 
Offices  for  religious  occasions,  but  also  in  pro- 
viding for  the  active  participation  of  both  Priest 
and  people,  as  no  other  Rite  does,  Rome  and 
Protestantism  especially  leaving  little  for  the 
Laity  to  do. 

The  Service  of  Holy  Communion,   which  is 
the  Liturgy  proper,  has  also  been  known  under 

l8 


"A    LITTLE    CHILD    SHALL   LEAD 
THEM." 


HISTORICAI,  SKETCH  I9 

various  other  names,  each  of  which  accentuates 
some  special  aspect  of  this  sacred  Rite,  as  "  the 
Breaking  of  Bread,"  "the  Lord's  Supper," 
"the  Oblation,"  "the  Holy  Eucharist,"  "the 
Sacrifice,"  "the  Holy  Mysteries,"  "the  Divine 
Liturgy,"  "the  Sacrament  of  the  Altar,"  "  the 
Sacrament  of  the  Body  and  Blood  of  Christ," 
"the  Blessed  Sacrament"  and  "the  Mass." 
Most  of  these  are  retained  in  the  Book  of  Com- 
mon Prayer,  and  are  found  used  in  Holy  Scrip- 
ture or  in  Ancient  times.  The  use  of  the  word 
"  Mass  "  is  deprecated  by  some,  not  as  wrong  but 
as  inexpedient.  No  proper  objection  can  be 
made  to  the  word  ' '  Mass  "  as  a  word,  or  because 
it  is  the  name  generally  applied  to  the  Offering 
of  the  Holy  Sacrifice  by  the  Roman  Communion. 
Its  use  however  may  not  be  advisable  or  expe- 
dient, on  account  of  its  disputed  origin  and 
meaning,  its  association  in  the  minds  of  many 
with  mediaeval  error  and  superstition  and  the 
intentional  omission  from  the  Prayer  Book, 
There  could  be  no  better  names  than  those  of 
"Holy  Communion,"  "Holy  Mysteries"  and 
"Holy  Eucharist."  The  last,  that  of  "Holy 
Eucharist,"  may  especially  be  advocated  as  it 
most  clearly  brings  out  the  meaning  of  the  ser- 
vice and  emphasizes  the  thought  that  the  Holy 
Communion  is  not  only  our  greatest  blessing  and 
privilege  but  also  our  solemn  "Sacrifice  of 
praise  and  thanksgiving." 

The  Liturgy  was  not  at  first  written  for  fear 
of  those  outside  the  faithful  learning  the  sacred 
words.  That  a  similar  order  however  was  fol- 
lowed, wherever  the  Holy  Eucharist  was  cele- 
brated, is  seen  on  comparing  those  Ancient  Rites, 
when  later  put  into  writing,  those  Forms  which 
have  come  down  to  us  showing  a  resemblance 


20  the:  lylTURGY 

only  to  be  explained  by  a  common  model.  For 
convenience'  sake  these  Early  Liturgies  may  be 
divided  into  four  families  :  the  Oriental,  used  in 
the  East,  the  Alexandrian,  used  in  Egypt  and 
Abyssinia  ;  the  Roman,  used  in  Rome,  Italy  and 
Africa  ;  the  Ephesian,  used  in  Ephesus.  These 
are  often  known  by  the  names  of  their  reputed 
composers  such  as  the  Liturgies  of  S.  Chrysos- 
tom,  S.  Clement,  S.  James  ;  S.  Mark,  S.  Basil  ; 
S.  Peter  ;  S.  John.  From  the  Ephesian  Rite  of 
S.  John  sprang  the  Mozarabic  Liturgy,  used  in 
Spain,  and  the  Galilean  Liturgy,  used  in 
France. 

From  France  the  Galilean  Liturgy  was  intro- 
duced into  England  (then  Britain)  probably  at 
the  time  of  the  planting  of  the  Church  there. 
It  flourished  in  Britain  for  a  long  time.  When 
Augustine  and  his  followers  came  from  Rome  in 
597,  to  convert  the  Anglo-Saxons,  who  had  pos- 
sessed the  larger  part  of  the  land,  they  found 
the  British  Church,  which  was  existing  in  the 
more  remote  parts  of  the  country  to  which  it 
had  been  driven,  still  using  the  Galilean  Liturgy. 
Augustine,  acting  on  the  instructions  of  Gregory 
the  Great,  did  not  try  to  supplant  this  Liturgy 
with  the  Roman  Rite,  but  combined  the  two 
into  what  was  virtually  a  new  national  Use. 
The  existence  of  these  several  Liturgies  led  to 
the  Cathedral  and  Collegiate  centres  compiling 
Adaptations  of  their  own,  called  "  Uses."  That 
of  Old  Sariun,  which  was  arranged  in  1085  by 
Osmund,  Bishop  of  Salisbury,  gradually  sup- 
planted all  others  in  popular  use,  becoming  the 
Rite  generally  followed  in  England,  up  to  the 
Reformation, 

The  recital  of  the  Service  in  Latin,  which 
these  changes  brought  about,  which   language 


HISTORICAI,  SKETCH  21 

was  only  understood  by  the  Clergy  and  culti- 
vated classes,  was  a  great  defect  and  soon  af- 
fected the  spiritual  life  of  the  people.  To 
remedy  this,  there  were  issued  in  English  for 
private  use  Books  of  Devotion  containing  the 
Canonical  Hours  and  other  Offices,  and  Primers 
of  instruction  on  doctrine  and  duty.  Such 
works  however,  did  not  compensate  the  people 
for  the  failure  to  understand  the  recital  of  the 
public  Offices.  This  together  with  the  excessive 
number  of  the  Service  Books  and  the  compli- 
cated directions  for  their  use,  which  it  has  been 
said,  made  "it  take  longer  to  find  out  how  to 
do  a  thing  than  to  do  it,"  showed  the  need  of 
liturgical  reform. 

This  may  be  said  to  have  begun  with  the  publi- 
cation of  the  "Bishops'  Book"  in  1537,  the  "King's 
Book"  in  1543,  and  the  "Primer"  in  1545,  con- 
taining short  instructions  and  devotions,  which 
prepared  the  way  for  the  issue  in  1548,  of  an 
English  translation  for  the  Laity,  of  part  of  the 
Liturgy,  entitled  "  The  Order  of  Communion." 
The  Reformers  then  set  to  work  to  revise  and 
remodel  the  Service  Books,  their  aim  being 
shortness,  simplicity  and  a  return  to  the  earlier 
and  purer  forms.  The  Mediaeval  Books  of  the 
Missal,  or  the  Mass,  the  Breviary,  or  the  daily 
Prayers,  the  Pontifical,  or  the  Episcopal  Acts, 
the  MajiKal,  or  the  occasional  offices,  with  other 
minor  works,  were  revised,  condensed,  translated 
into  English  and  formed  into  one  book,  the  whole 
being  issued  in  1549  as  the  First  Prayer  Book 
of  Edward  VI.  Subsequent  revisions,  not  al- 
ways wise  ones,  are  known  as  the  Second  Prayer 
Book  of  Edward  VI.,  issued  in  1552,  which  work 
however  never  came  into  general  use,  or  received 
the  approval  of  Convocation  ;  the  Prayer  Book 


22  THE  I<ITURGY 

of  Elizabeth^  publishedin  1559,^  in  some  respects 
a  compromise  between  the  two  books  of  Ed- 
ward ;  and  after  some  revision  in  the  reigns  of 
King  James  I.,  and  Charles  II.,  \\\&  Prayer  Book 
of  1662,  which  with  slight  modifications  is  that 
in  use  in  England  to-day.  Another  revision 
which  may  be  mentioned,  is  that  which  was  pre- 
pared in  1637,  in  the  reign  of  Charles  I.,  to  be  in- 
troduced into  Scotland,  which  attempt  signally 
failed.  The  present  Liturgy  of  the  Scottish 
Church  is  a  revision  of  the  Edition  of  1764,  which 
came  from  the  Nonjurors.  The  English  Book 
however  is  largely  used. 

In  its  final  revision  the  Liturgy  of  the  Church 
of  England  is  one  to  be  respected  and  admired. 
It  has  stood  the  test  of  centuries  and  its  Catholic 
character  cannot  be  questioned  by  anyone  con- 
versant wath  the  Prayer  Book,  and  the  sources 
from  which  it  came.  The  splendid  Liturgy  of 
the  American  Church,  however,  though  inferior 
in  places,  as  a  whole  is  infinitely  superior. 
Modelled  somewhat  after  the  Scottish  Service, 
it  is  notably  blessed  in  having  a  full  form  of 
Consecration,  Invocation  and  Oblation.  It  may 
be  looked  upon  as  the  best  of  all  the  Reformed 
Liturgies  and  the  one  which  most  closely  con- 
nects us  with  the  past,  through  Old  Sarum  Rite 
tracing  the  descent  of  the  Anglican  Office  to  the 
Ancient  Liturgy  of  Saint  John  of  Ephesus. 

II 

EXPLANATION  OF  THE  SERVICE 

All  Ancient  Liturgies  had  two  connected  but 
distinct  parts,  known  as  the  Pro-Anaphora  and 

*  Also  a  Latin  Edition  in  1560,  which  somewhat  differs. 


EXPI.ANATION  OF  THE  SERVICE  23 

the  Anaphora.'  The  first  part,  which  differed 
considerably,  consisted  of  what  were  called  the 
Mass  of  the  Catechumens  and  the  Mass  of  the 
Faithful,  and  included  the  Prayers,  the  Epistle, 
the  Gospel,  the  Creed  and  what  followed  up  to 
the  Sursum  Corda  ;  the  second  part,  which  varied 
slightly,  embraced  the  Eucharistic  Prayer,  the 
Consecration,  the  Intercession  for  the  Living 
and  the  Dead,  and  the  Communion.  These  di- 
visions are  still  apparent  in  the  Ordinary  and 
Canon  of  our  reformed  Rite.  For  the  sake  of 
clearness  they  may  be  subdivided  and  described 
as  follows  '^  : 

The  Introductio7i 

The  Lord's  Prayer.  The  Service  fittingly 
begins  with  the  recital  of  the  Lord's  Prayer, 
which  as  the  Divinely  given  Pattern  well  directs 
the  intention  of  all  the  Divine  Offices.  Here  it 
is  said  only  by  the  Priest,  and  with  the  Prayer 
for  Purity  which  follows,  is  part  of  his  pre- 
paration, formerly  being  appointed  to  be  said 
secretly. 

The  Collect  for  Purity.  This  very  an- 
cient and  very  beautiful  prayer  brings  before  us 
the  need  of  personal  purity,  for  our  approach  to 
the  Holy  Mysteries  about  to  be  celebrated.  It 
is  an  echo  of  the  Beatitude,  "Blessed  are  the 
pure  in  heart,  for  they  shall  see  God," 

The  Commandments.  The  recital  of  the 
Decalogue  is  a  peculiarity  of  the  Anglican  Rite 

'  Anaphora  means  "Lifdng  up"  and  refers  to  the 
Offering. 

^  It  had  better  be  read  with  the  Service  on  page 

This  Order  is  that  of  the  American  Church. 


24  THE  I^ITURGY 

but  notwithstanding  is  eminently  appropriate. 
Here  at  the  beginning  of  a  service  which  is  to 
bring  to  us  GoD  veiled  in  the  Sacrament  of  the 
Altar,  we  are  carried  in  spirit  to  the  time  when 
God,  hidden  in  the  clouds  of  Sinai,  showed  His 
Glory  and  Grandeur,  and  revealed  to  man  His 
Eternal  Counsels  in  these  Laws  of  Holy  Living. 

The  Short  Summary.  This  gives  the 
sense  and  spirit  of  the  Commandments,  as  ex- 
plained by  our  LORD,  in  our  Duty  towards  God 
and  our  Duty  towards  our  neighbour.  This  Sum- 
mary may  be  read  in  addition  to  the  Decalogue, 
or  may  be  said  in  its  stead.  It  does  not  appear 
in  the  Rite  of  the  Church  of  England,  in  its 
place  being  a  Collect  for  the  King. 

The  Kyrie  Eleison.  These  petitions, 
*■'  Lord  have  mercy  upon  us,^''  "  Christ  have 
mercy  upon  tis,^''  ^'Lord  have  mercy  upon  us,'^ 
here  follow  to  express,  not  only  our  sense  of  un- 
worthiness  but  also  our  trust  in  God's  Forgive- 
ness. They  were  formerly  said  nine  times. 
Now  they  are  used  in  their  shorter  form  when 
the  Commandments  are  omitted  or  when  the 
Short  Summary  is  said.  They  are  not  found  in 
the  English  Rite. 

The  Prayer  for  Direction.  This  is  set 
forth  in  the  American  but  not  in  the  English 
Service.  It  asks  God's  loving  guidance,  care 
and  protection,  and  shows  our  reliance  on  Him. 

The  Collect,  Epistle  and  Gospel.  These 
are  as  appointed  for  the  Day.  The  Collect  is 
a  brief  prayer,  composed  of  a  few  petitions  col- 
lected together,  emphasizing  one  special  thought ; 
the    Epistle   is   a   selection    taken    from    God's 


KXPLANATION   OF  THE  SERVICE  25 

Word  as  written  by  the  Apostles  or  Prophets  ; 
the  Gospel  is  God's  Word  as  revealed  in  the 
Life  and  Teaching  of  our  Lord.  Together  the 
Epistle  and  Gospel,  representing  the  Scriptures, 
which,  Inspired  by  the  Holy  Ghost  and  written 
by  human  agents,  are  Divine  and  Human,  sym- 
bolize the  Incarnation  of  Christ,  "  The  Word 
made  Flesh."  In  some  Churches,  the  ancient 
practice  is  followed  of  singing  between  the  Epis- 
tle and  Gospel  the  Sequence,  so  called  be- 
cause it  followed  [seqjiitiir)  the  Epistle,  and  the 
Gradiial,  because  sung  on  the  steps  [in  gradibns) 
of  the  Altar.  These  are  generally  verses  from 
the  Psalms,  ending  with  Alleluia. 

The  Creed.  This  is  the  Church's  declaration 
of  the  historical  and  doctrinal  statements  of 
"  the  Faith  once  delivered  to  the  Saints."  By 
its  recital  we  profess  our  belief  in  and  pledge 
ourselves  to  follow  the  teaching  of  the  Holy 
Catholic  Church. 

The  Offertoiy 

The  Sentences.  The  Sermon  (if  there  is 
one)  having  been  preached,  one  or  more  sen- 
tences from  Holy  Scripture,  on  the  duty  of  Alms- 
giving, are  read  to  make  the  people  realize  their 
responsibility  as  stewards  of  God's  Blessings, 
and  to  urge  them  to  give  liberally  according  to 
their  means. 

The  Presentation  of  Alms.  The  moneys 
which  have  been  collected  are  now  offered  to 
God  at  the  Altar,  teaching  that  God  is  the 
Giver  of  all  good  gifts,  and  that  in  spending  for 
the  Church  or  the  poor  we  give  Him  of  His  Own. 


26  the;  IilTURGY 

The  Oblations  of  Bread  and  Wine.     The 

elements  of  Bread  and  Wine  to  be  consecrated 
are  then  in  turn  presented  at  the  Altar.  As  God 
accepts  the  Alms  to  be  given  to  the  Church  or 
the  poor,  so  He  accepts  the  Bread  and  Wine,  to 
become  the  means  of  conveying  Our  Blessed 
Lord  to  us. 

The  Prayer  for  the  Church.'  This  is  a 
general  Intercession  both  for  the  living  and  the 
dead.  It  points  to  the  intention  with  which  we 
are  to  offer  up  the  Eucharist,  for  all  Estates  of 
the  Catholic  Church. 

The  Approach 

The  Exhortation.  This  begins  what  may 
be  called  the  Approach  to  the  Holy  Mysteries. 
The  Exhortation  is  a  short  note  of  warning,  re- 
minding us  that  we  must  draw  near  in  faith, 
love,  and  repentance,  making  confession  of  our 
sins  to  Almighty  God. 

The  Confession. 2  The  Priest  as  well  as 
the  people  kneels,  and  together  they  make  an 
humble  acknowledgment  of  sin.  When  we 
think  of  how  dreadful  sin  is,  how  it  caused  the 
Fall,  the  sorrow  and  suffering  due  to  the  Fall, 
and  above  all  the  Crucifixion  of  Christ,  we  do 
well  to  bow  low  before  God,  against  Whose  In- 
finite Love  we  so  frequently  offend,  and  ask  His 

*  It  is  most  unseemly  and  irreverent  to  leave  the  Church 
at  this  point,  as  is  the  custom  of  some.  It  is  turning  away 
from  the  coming  of  the  Lord,  dishonours  the  Sacrament 
and  avows  one's  unfitness  for  remaining  with  Christian 
people. 

^  See  Chapter  on  Penitence.  It  is  assumed  that  those 
who  use  these  words  have  previously  examined  them- 
selves and  asked  God's  pardon. 


EXPI.ANATION  OF  THE  SERVICE         27 

Forgiveness  for  the  sake  of  Christ,  Who  died 
for  "  us  men  and  for  our  salvation." 

The  Absolution.  Standing,  the  Priest, 
speaking  for  God,  by  virtue  of  his  Office,  con- 
veys God's  Forgiveness  of  sin  to  all  who  truly 
repent.  Thus  the  Precious  Blood  of  Jesus  is 
applied  to  the  soul,  and  the  stains  of  sin  washed 
away. 

The  Comfortable  Words.  The  burden  of 
sin  has  been  laid  at  the  Cross  and  lifted  in  Ab- 
solution. Now  in  the  Comfortable  Words,  taken 
from  Holy  Scripture,  we  are  assured  of  rest  and 
peace,  through  the  Merits  and  Mediation  of 
Jesus  Christ. 

The  Canon 

The  Sursum  Corda.  The  more  solemn 
portion  of  the  service  then  begins.  We  are 
raised  to  a  higher  plane  as  the  words  ""Lift  tip 
your  hearts'''  bid  us  think  only  of  the  near  ap- 
proach of  our  Lord  in  the  Holy  Mysteries. 

Introduction  and  Preface.  With  impres- 
sive words  the  Priest  now  declares  our  bounden 
duty  to  render  thanks  and  praise  to  Almighty 
God,  as  with  intense  adoration  we  wing  our  spir- 
itual flight  unto  the  Throne  of  Grace  and  lis- 
ten to  the  Sanctus  Song. 

The  Sanctus.  This  is  the  Triumphant 
Hymn  of  the  Angels,  our  solemn  act  of  adora- 
tion. Before  us  comes  the  vision  of  Heaven. 
We  bend  low  in  worship  before  Almighty  God. 
We  think  of  the  Majesty  of  His  Glory.  We  pic- 
ture the  glorious  company  of  the  Apostles,  the 
goodly  fellowship  of  the  Prophets,    the  noble 


28  THK   IvlTURGY 

army  of  Martyrs,  the  Holy  Church  throughout 
the  world,  as  with  them  we  join  our  praises 
to  the  chaunting  of  the  Celestial  Choirs,  and 
with  Angels  and  Archangels  and  with  all 
the  Company  of  Heaven,  laud  and  magnify 
God's  Glorious  Name.  Well  may  we  with  Ser- 
aphim veil  our  faces  as  we  think  of  God's 
Glory,  and  adore  Him  in  the  Highest  Heaven, 
Him  Who  is  Holy  Father,  Holy  Son,  Holy 
Ghost,  Three  Persons  in  One  God,  even  the 
Lord  of  Hosts,  the  Lord  Most  High. 

The  Prayer  of  Humble  Access.    As  the 

Sanctus  ends,  for  a  moment  a  solemn  stillness 
seems  to  reign.  God  who  is  ever  near  is  com- 
ing nearer  in  a  sacramental  manner.  We  have 
sung  His  Glory,  Now  we  humble  ourselves 
before  Him,  and  pray  that  which  is  called  in  the 
East  the  "  Bowing  Down  Prayer,"  for  only  in 
such  spirit  may  we  approach  the  King.  And  as 
the  Prayer  ends  there  follows  the  Hymn, '  ^Blessed 
is  He  that  Cometh  in  the  Name  of  the  Lo7'd, 
Hosanna  in  the  Highest,'''  '  the  Song  of  wel- 
come to  Him,  Who  comes  to  us  in  these  Holy 
Mysteries. 

The  Consecration.  The  tremendous  act  of 
the  whole  service  is  now  to  take  place,  the  act 
that  is  to  bring  our  Blessed  Lord  near  to  us. 
All  should  kneel  low  in  silent  adoration  and 
worship.  There  should  be  perfect  stillness  as 
the  Priest  most  reverently  and  solemnly  recites 
the  Short  Commemoration  of  our  Lord's  Death 
and  Passion,  and  says  the  Words  of  Institution, 
which  being  essential  to  valid  Consecration  are 
found  in  all  Liturgies.     By  these  Words  of  our 

*  S.  Matthew  xxi.  7. 


EXPIvANATION  OF  THE)  SERVICE  29 

Lord,  and  by  the  Descent  of  the  Holy  Ghost 
the  earthly  elements  are  blessed  and  sanctified, 
the  Bread  and  Wine  becoming  the  Body  and 
Blood  of  Christ,  a  Mystery  we  cannot  under- 
stand but  must  believe  on  the  Word  of  our 
Saviour. 

The  Oblation.  Continuing,  we  present  unto 
the  Father  the  Solemn  Memorial,  commanded 
by  our  Lord,  commemorating  His  Acts  in  the 
work  of  Redemption,  and  rendering  our  most 
hearty  thanks  for  the  innumerable  benefits  pro- 
cured unto  us  by  the  same. 

The  Invocation.  This  is  the  solemn  com- 
memoration of  the  work  of  the  Holy  Ghost  as 
the  effectual  agent  in  the  Consecration  of  the 
Bread  and  Wine  to  become  the  Body  and  Blood 
of  Christ.  The  splendid  form  of  Invocation 
which  the  American  Church  uses,  in  common 
with  the  Scottish  and  Eastern  Churches,  is  not 
clearly  set  forth  in  the  Office  of  the  Church  of 
England  and  is  lacking  in  the  modern  Latin 
Rite.  Continuing,  the  Canon  commemorates  the 
personal  offering  of  each  worshipper,  of  "our- 
selves, our  souls  and  bodies,"  together  with  the 
"sacrifice  of  praise  and  thanksgiving"  asking 
God  to  accept  this  our  Oblation,  and  to  grant  to 
the  living  and  the  dead  the  remission  of  their 
sins  through  the  Merits  and  Mediation  of  Jesus 
Christ.  This  personal  offering  of  the  worship- 
per should  be  carefully  noted  and  realized.  After 
beseeching  God  that  all  may  worthily  receive 
these  Holy  Mysteries  of  the  Most  Precious  Body 
and  Blood  of  Christ,  the  Canon  ends  with  a 
fine  ascription  of  praise  in  the  words,  "  through 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord  :  by  Whom  and  with 
Whom  in  the  unity  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  all 


30  THE  IvlTURGY 

honour  and  glory  be  unto  Thee,  O  Father  Al- 
mighty, world  without  end.     Amen." 

The  Communion 

The  Priest's  Communion.  The  Priest 
first  makes  his  Communion,  thus  completing  the 
Offering.  Then  after  silent  prayer,  he  turns  to  the 
people,  holding  the  Sacred  Elements  as  an  invi- 
tation for  all  who  so  desire,  to  approach. 

During  this  time  it  is  often  the  custom  to 
sing  the  Ag)itis  Dei,  which  is  taken  from  the 
Gloria  in  Excelsis,  "  O  Lamb  of  God  that  takest 
a7vay  the  Sins  of  the  World,  have  mercy  upon 
us  "  thrice  repeated  except  that  the  words  ''Have 
mercy  upon  US'"  are  changed  to  "  Grant  us  Thy 
Peace, ''^  in  the  last  petition. 

The  Communion  of  the  People.  Rever- 
ently coming  forward  and  kneeling  at  the  Altar 
rail,  the  people  receive  the  Sacrament  in  both 
kinds,  as  administered  by  our  Lord.  By  this 
partaking  of  Christ's" Body  and  Blood  they  thus 
appropriate  to  themselves  the  Benefits  won  by 
the  Sacrifice  of  the  Cross.  It  is  a  solemn  mo- 
ment and  all  should  try  to  realize  the  Sacred 
Presence  and  appreciate  the  Precious  Gift,  kneel- 
ing in  fervent  love  and  devout  thanksgiving.^ 
For  by  this  Sacramental  union,  we  have  the 
pledge  of  everlasting  life,  "  Christ  in  tis  the  hope 
of  Glory.''     Silent,  reverent  and  adoring  should 

^  The  irreverent  practice  of  some  of  leaving  the  Church 
immediately  after  their  communion  cannot  be  too  strongly 
condemned.  It  dishonours  our  Lord,  disturbs  devout 
worshippers,  deprives  of  the  Blessing  and  if  done  at  a 
worldly  feast  would  pronounce  the  doer  lacking  in  polite- 
ness.    The  practice  is  altogether  without  authority. 


KXPI,ANATlON  OF  THE)  SERVICE  31 

all  be  during  these  solemn  moments,  for  truly 
the  Scripture  says  :  "  The  Lord  is  in  His  Holy 
Temple ;  let  all  the  earth  keep  silence  before 
Himr  ^ 

The  Thanksgiving 

The  Lord's  Prayer.  The  Divine  Mysteries 
have  been  received  but  Christ  is  still  present. 
The  souls  of  the  faithful  are  uplifted  with  the 
joy  of  Communion  and  with  an  unspeakable 
peace  and  exaltation.  We  are  profoundly  thank- 
ful for  the  Sacred  Gifts  and  we  feel  the  insuffi- 
ciency of  our  own  prayers.  Thus  the  Church, 
knowing  her  children's  needs,  places  here  for  all 
to  say,  the  "Our  Father,"  that  we  may  fitly 
adore  God  and  express  the  devotion  filling  our 
hearts. 

The  Thanksgiving.  This  is  a  very  beauti- 
ful prayer.  It  thanks  God  for  the  Holy  Mys- 
teries of  the  Most  Precious  Body  and  Blood  of 
Christ,  and  asks  God's  Grace  to  do  such  good 
works  as  He  has  prepared  for  us  to  walk  in. 

The  Gloria  in  Excelsis.  Though  uniquely 
placed  in  this  position  in  our  Liturgy,  we  may 
specially  rejoice  that  in  its  words  we  may  wor- 
ship Him  Who  is  still  with  us,  veiled  in  the 
Elements  of  Bread  and  Wine.^  Fittingly  then, 
at  the  very  close  of  our  Service,  which  has  raise-d 
us  to  Heaven,  in  our  Sacramental  union  with 
our  Lord,  do  we  sing  the  Angel's  Song,  the  first 
Christian  Hymn,  with  which  the  heavenly  host 
on  the  Morn  of  the  Nativity  sang  the  Glory  of 

^  Habakkuk  ii.  20. 

^  This  more  than  compensates  for  any  loss  due  to  this 
position  differentiating  our  Rite  from  others,  Ancient  and 
Modern. 


32  THE  I^ITURGY 

God  Incarnate.  No  other  Liturgy  in  the  world 
has  such  a  magnificent  ending  as  this  of  the 
Anglican  Church. 

The  Benediction.  The  form  used  is  pecu- 
liar to  our  Rite.  It  is  from  two  places  in  Holy 
Scripture  and  is  very  beautiful.  First  the  Pax 
J^obiscuin,  or  the  Peace  which  passeth  all  under- 
standing, is  pronounced  by  the  Priest  upon  all 
the  assembled  worshippers,  after  which  he  gives 
the  Blessing  of  the  Father  and  of  the  Son  and 
of  the  Holy  Ghost,  the  Eternal  and  Ever 
Blessed  Trinity. 

In  silent  prayer  and  devout  thanksgiving  the 
people  kneel  until  the  Priest  consumes  what  re- 
mains of  the  Consecrated  Elements,  makes  the 
ablutions  and  then  passes  from  the  Choir,  Then 
in  gladness  may  all  go  to  their  homes,  for  they 
have  '^^  been  zvith  yusus''''  and  have  received 
Him,  the  King  of  Glory,  the  Son  of  God  Most 
High. 

A  very  beautiful  interpretation  of  the  sev- 
eral acts  of  the  Office  suggests  that  the  Introit 
symbolizes  the  Song  of  the  Angels,  the  Lord's 
Prayer,  Christ  teaching  the  Apostles  to  pray, 
the  Epistle,  salvation  offered  to  but  refused  by 
the  Jews,  the  Gospel,  salvation  accepted  by  the 
Gentiles,  the  Creed,  our  Lord's  teaching,  the 
Alms  and  Oblations,  the  Gifts  of  the  Magi,  the 
Consecration,  Christ's  Passion,  the  Communion, 
Christ  laid  in  the  Tomb,  the  Gloria  in  Excel- 
sis,  the  Resurrection,  the  Benediction,  the 
Ascension. 


RITUAI<  AND   CEREMONIAI,  33 

III 
RITUAL  AND  CEREMONIAL 

All  who  are  spiritually  minded  must  feel  that 
such  a  solemn  service  cannot  be  too  reverently 
or  too  frequently  celebrated.  Instituted  by  our 
Lord  and  bringing  the  faithful  into  union  with 
Him,  it  must  ever  be  the  great  Act  of  Christian 
Worship,  and  now  as  in  ancient  times, ^  when- 
ever possible,  should  be  offered  daily.  Nor  can 
too  much  honour  be  shown  to  Christ,  the  Ob- 
ject of  all  worship.  Saint  Paul  says  let  "a// 
things  be  done  decently  and  in  order. ^''  '^  This 
implies  certain  Rites  and  Ceremonies,  which  not 
only  ensure  the  reverent  rendering  of  the  ser- 
vice, but  also  show  forth  its  two-fold  character 
as  a  Sacramental  Feast  ^  and  a  Commemorative 
Sacrifice."*  Ceremonial  in  truth  enshrines  and 
interprets  doctrine.  The  order  of  the  Liturgy, 
the  distinctive  dress  of  the  Clergy,  the  use  of  rit- 
ual acts  and  even  the  arrangement  of  the  Church 
were  all  instituted  for  this  purpose.  The  whole 
man — body,  soul,  and  spirit — should  worship  Al- 
mighty God. 

Thus  Rites  and  Ceremonies,  indifferent  in 
themselves,  become  the  means  of  expressing  rev- 
erence, arousing  devotion  and  showing  forth 
some  mystical  meaning.  Strictly  speaking.  Rites 
are  the  Forms  of  Words,  or  written  Services, 
Ceremonies  the  appointments  of  Church  and 
Clergy  and  outward  acts  of  worship.  The  Rites 
and  Ceremonies  used  by  this  branch  of  the 
Church  are  those  allowed  by  the  Ornaments 
Rubric  of  the  Church  of  England,  which  the 

*  Acts  ii.  42,  46.  *  I  Cor.  x.  16  and  P.  B. 

'  I  Cor.  xiv.  40.  *  J  Cor.  xi.  36  and  P.  B. 

3 


34  THE  LITURGY 

Preface  of  the  American  Prayer  Book  gener- 
ally accepts.  For  that  which  is  not  explicitly 
set  forth,  the  usage  of  Antiquity  otr  the  custom 
of  the  universal  Church  is  followed.'  The  gov- 
erning thought,  however,  should  be  that  all  cere- 
monial must  have  a  spiritual  or  symbolical 
meaning.  The  following  notes  of  explanation 
may  be  helpful : 

The  Service.  This  is  said  or  sung.  At  the 
Choral  Service  the  Clergy  and  Choir  enter  in 
Procession,  to  show  that  in  the  words  of  the 
Psalmist  "  they  will  go  from  strength  to 
strength,^''  ^  journeying  with  our  Lord  to  the 
Holy  City  on  High.  They  are  led  by  the  Cross, 
for  it  is  the  symbol  of  redemption  and  the  glory 
of  the  Church,  "  God  forbid  that  I  should  glory 
save  in  the  Cross  of  yesus  Chris t.^^  ^  So  our 
Lord  went  before  them  carrying  His  Cross.  * 
Banners  are  sometimes  borne  to  arouse  devotion 
and  to  teach  the  truths  of  the  Faith,  "  Thou 
hast  given  a  banner  to  them  that  fear  Thee  that 
it  may  be  displayed  because  of  the  truth^^''  ^  The 
service  is  often  sung,  as  the  best  way  of  praising 
God,  thus  following  the  custom  of  the  Jewish, 
Ancient  and  Mediseval  Church  and  obeying  the 
words  of  Scripture,  "  0  Come,  let  us  sijig  unto 
the  Lordy  ^  Incense  is  sometimes  used,  because 
it  symbolizes  the  Merits  of  Christ  and  the 
Prayers  of  the  Saints,  and  because  the  Bible  says, 
"  In  every  place  Incense  shall  be  offered  unto 
My  Name  and  a  Pure  Off'ering.'"  ' 

*  Common  sense  must  often  guide.  To  say  that  unless 
explicit  directions  are  given,  a  thing  must  not  be  done  is 
ridiculous.  If  so,  then  there  is  no  way  for  a  Priest  to  en- 
ter the  Church,  as  no  directions  are  given. 

^  Psalm  Ixxxiv.  7.  *S.  John  xix.  17. 

3  Galatians  vi.  14.        "  Psalm  Ix.  4.        ^  Pslam  xcv.  i. 

^  Malachi  i.  ii. 


RITUAI,  AND  CEREMONIAI,  35 

The  Church  Building.  This  is  divided  into 
the  Nave  where  the  people  worship,  the  Chan- 
cel where  the  clergy  and  choir  stay,  and  the 
Sanctuary  where  the  Altar  is.  These  three 
divisions  symbolize  the  Church  Militant  on 
earth,  the  Church  Expectant  in  the  Place  of  De- 
parted Spirits  and  the  C'hurch  Triumphant  in 
Heaven,  and  correspond  with  the  Outer  Court, 
the  Holy  Place  and  the  Holy  of  Holies  of  the 
Jewish  Temple,  which  was  modelled  after  God's 
directions.  A  Rood-Screen,  so  called  because 
surmounted  by  a  Cross  or  Crucifix,  often  separ- 
ates the  Nave  and  Choir,  symbolizing  that  death 
is  the  entrance  to  the  life  beyond  the  veil  and 
the  Cross  the  hope  of  salvation.  The  Font  is 
placed  by  the  entrance  door  and  the  Altar  in 
the  Sanctuary  at  the  farthest  end,  to  show  the 
solemn  rite  of  Baptism,  which  begins  the 
Christian  life,  leading  to  the  Holy  Sacrament  of 
Communion,  the  greatest  privilege  of  the 
Christian  life. 

In  the  Sanctuary,  the  most  sacred  part  of  the 
Church,  the  Passion  of  Christ  is  shown  forth, 
in  the  Service  of  Holy  Communion  wherein  is 
represented  our  Lord's  Death  and  Sacrifice,  and 
in  the  Appointments  of  the  Altar,  where  it  is 
symbolized.  The  Altar  is  elevated  to  teach  that 
our  Lord  was  lifted  up  at  the  Crucifixion.  When 
made  of  stone  it  symbolizes  the  rock  of  Calvary  ; 
when  of  wood,  the  Cross.  On  the  ledge,  called 
the  Re-table,  which  is  behind  the  Altar,  is  a 
Cross,  to  tell  the  manner  of  Christ's  Death, 
but  without  the  Figure,  as  we  worship  a  Living 
Lord  in  the  Sacrament.  The  Candles  are  there, 
all  to  teach  that  Christ  was  the  Light  of  the 
world,  the  two  larger  ones  or  Eticharistic  Lights 
that    Pie   is    GoD   and    Man.       The    Vases   of 


36  THE  WTURGY 

Flowers  ^  are  used  to  honour  our  Lord  and  to 
symbolize  that  He  is,  "  The  Rose  of  Sharon  and 
the  Lily  of  the  Valleys.^''  '^  The  Altar  is  covered 
with  a  Fair  Linen  Cloth ^  to  symbolize  the 
Sacramental  Feast,  and  that  Cloth  is  marked 
with  Five  Crosses  to  typify  the  five  Wounds  of 
Christ.  The  Hangings  or  Frontals  of  Coloured 
Silk  or  Cloth  show  forth  the  Church's  Seasons, 
White  for  most  Festivals,  Violet  for  Advent  and 
Lent,  Green  for  Epiphany  and  Trinity,  Red  for 
Whitsunday  and  Martyrs.  These  Frontals  are 
embroidered  to  teach  that  God's  House  should 
be  made  beautiful.  Behind  the  Altar  there  is 
often  a  Reredos,  a  carved  stone  or  wooden  screen 
or  wall,  or  else  a  Dossal  or  embroidered  hang- 
ing of  cloth  or  silk.  Thus  art  and  architecture 
are  made  to  contribute  to  sacred  uses,  and  the 
structure  and  appointments  of  God's  Holy 
Temple  to  show  forth  His  teaching. 

The  Priest's  Vestments.  The  Clergy 
who  wear  a  Cassock,  Surplice  and  Stole  at 
ordinary  offices,  which  Vestments  are  copied 
after  the  Garments  worn  by  our  Lord,  often  use  a 
distinctive  dress  in  honour  of  the  greater  Service 
of  Holy  Communion,  and  in  order  to  symbolize 
Christ's  Passion  on  the  Day  of  the  Cross, 
These  Eucharistic  Vestments^  which  are  worn 
over  the  black  Cassock,  ^  with  their  mystical 
meaning  are  as  follows  :  the  Amice,  a  deep 
white  collar  passed  over  the  head,  symbolizes 
the  Linen  with  which  our  Lord  was  blind- 
folded ;  the  Alb,  a  white  linen  garment  resem- 
bling  a   Cassock,    symbolizes    the    white    robe 

^  In  ancient  times  flowers  were  strewn  on  the  floor. 
"^  Canticles  ii.  i. 

^  The  Cassock  was  the  ordinary  street  dress  of  the 
Priest  in  olden  times.    It  signifies  devotion  or  consecration. 


RlTUAIv   AND   CEREMONIAIv  37 

placed  on  Christ  by  Herod  ;  the  Girdle,  a  linen 
cord  for  the  waist,  symbolizes  the  rope  by  which 
Christ  was  Scourged  ;  the  Stole,  a  silk  scarf, 
crossed  on  the  breast,  with  ends  hanging  down, 
symbolizes  the  rope  by  which  Christ  was  led  ; 
the  Chasuble,  an  upper  garment  with  opening 
for  the  head,  marked  with  a  Cross  on  front  and 
back,  symbolizes  the  Seamless  Robe  of  Christ, 
the  Cross  in  front  meaning  that  the  Priest  is 
pledged  to  follow  the  Cross,  the  Cross  at  back 
that  he  must  bear  the  Cross  ;  the  Maniple,  a 
small  Stole  on  the  left  arm,  symbolizes  the 
cords  which  bound  our  Lord.  A  further  mys- 
tical meaning  interprets  the  Amice  as  symboliz- 
ing faith,  the  Alb  purity,  the  Girdle  discipline, 
the  Stole  obedience,  the  Chasuble  Charity  and 
the  Maniple  humility.  Bishops  often  wear  the 
Eucharistic  Vestments  at  the  Celebration.  At 
other  times  they  wear  the  Rochet  and  Chimere, 
the  latter  once  the  street  dress  of  a  Bishop,  and 
on  special  occasions  the  ancient  Vestments  of 
Cope  and  Mitre.  The  Crozier  or  Pastoral  Staff 
which  is  sometimes  used,  shows  forth  their  ofifice 
as  shepherds  or  overseers  of  the  Church, 

The  Priest's  Acts.  These  also  have  their 
meaning.  Before  entering  the  Sanctuary  the 
Priest  has  reverently  made  ready  the  Chalice 
and  Paten,  by  placing  over  the  Chalice  a  linen 
Purificator,  and  on  that  the  Paten  and  over  all 
the  Pall,  Linen  Veil,  Silk  Veil  and  Burse  or 
silk  square,  containing  the  Linen  Napkin  or 
Corporal,  this  last  to  be  spread  over  the  middle 
of  the  Altar.  On  entering  the  Sanctuary,  the 
Priest  bows,  ascends  to  the  Altar,  arranges  the 
Vessels  and  Book,  and  then  returns  to  the  Altar 
steps   for  a  few  silent  prayers  of   preparation. 


38  THE  I.ITURGY 

Then  going  to  the  Altar  he  begins  the  Service. 
During  the  Office  the  Priest  stands  that  he  may 
offer  the  Holy  Oblation  '  as  Christ's  Repre- 
sentative,^ to  pray  in  His  Stead. ^  He  kneels 
only  at  the  Confession  and  Prayer  of  Humble 
Access,  to  show^  his  own  unworthiness.  He 
faces  the  people  w^hen  he  speaks  for  GoD  to 
them  ;  he  faces  the  Altar  when  he  pleads  for 
them  to  God.  When  he  prays  with  arms  ex- 
tended, so  that  with  his  body  he  forms  a  Cross, 
he  obeys  Saint  Paul's  command  :  "  /  zoill  there- 
fore that  men  pray  everywhere  lifting  tip  holy 
hands.'"  ^  When  he  genuflects  it  is  as  a  special 
act  of  reverence.  The  ceremonial  washing  of 
his  hands  is  to  show  the  need  of  purity,  "  I  will 
wash  my  hands  in  innocency  0  Lord  and  so  zvill 
I  go  to  Thine  Altar.''  *  The  Cleansing  of  the 
Chalice  is  to  ensure  that  none  of  the  consecrated 
elements  are  left. 

The  People's  Acts.  The  spiritually  minded 
will  ever  wish  to  make  a  good  Communion.  It 
is  possible  to  do  this  without  any  extraordinary 
act  of  outward  reverence,  yet  when  it  is  remem- 
bered that  the  Object  of  such  worship  is  our 
Blessed  Lord  it  would  seem  that  one  should  be 
unwilling  to  forego  any  way  of  chowing  Him 
honour.  Surely  we  should  not  do  less  in  the 
Temple  of  the  King  of  Kings,  than  is  rendered 
in  the  Courts  of  earthly  Sovereigns.  Such  acts  of 
reverence  will  honour  our  Lord  and  help  our 
devotion.  They  must  never  however  be  mean- 
ingless or  be  done  mechanically.  The  heart  and 
soul  must  go  with  the  body.  Nor  will  any  de- 
vout worshipper  ever  object  to  such  marks  of 

^  I  Cor.  xi.  26.  ^  I  S.  Timothy  ii.  8. 

^  2  Cor.  V.  20.  ^  Psalm  xxvi.  6. 


THEY    FELL    DOWN    AND 
WORSHIPPED    HIM." 


RITUAI,  AND  CEREMONIAI,  39 

reverence  in  others.  He  will  at  least  realize  the 
purpose  of  them  and  will  remember  the  words 
of  S.  Augustine,  who  voices  the  practice  of  An- 
tiquity :  "  No  man  eats  this  Flesh  unless  he  first 
adores  ;  for  the  Wise  Men  and  the  Barbarians 
did  worship  this  Body  in  the  Manger  with  great 
fear  and  reverence  ;  let  us  therefore  who  are 
Citizens  of  Heaven  at  least  not  fall  short  of  the 
Barbarians.  But  thou  seest  Him  not  in  the 
Manger  but  on  the  Altar  ;  and  thou  beholdest 
Him  not  in  the  Virgin's  arms  but  presented  by 
the  Priest  and  brought  to  thee  in  sacrifice  by  the 
Holy  Spirit  of  God." 

The  following  may  be  helpful  to  a  reverent 
Communion  : 

Receive  at  an  early  service  and  fasting.  ^  This 
is  ordered  by  Canon  Law  and  is  the  practice 
of  the  Universal  Church.  It  should  be 
remembered  that  the  Paschal  Supper,  after 
which  our  Lord  Instituted  the  Holy  Euch- 
arist, was  a  strictly  religious  meal,  carefully 
prepared  for.  It  in  no  way  countenances 
non-fasting  communion,  as  the  Eucharist  is 
our  Paschal  Meal.  Evening  communions,  it 
is  needless  to  say,  are  contrary  to  all  proper 
principle  or  practice. 

Be  in  Church  for  private  prayer  a  few  minutes 
before   the    service    and   never   leave    until . 
after  the  Blessing. 

Reverence  the  Cross  and  Altar  on  entering  and 
leaving,  for  there  the  Holy  Mysteries  are 
celebrated. 

Sign  the  Cross  before  and  after  the  service  ;  at 
the  conclusion  of  the  Creed,  and  Gloria  in 
Excelsis  ;  before  the  Gospel,  and  before  and 

^  Except  in  extreme  age  or  delicate  health. 


40  The  i^iturgy 

after  receiving  the  Holy  Communion,  for 
the  use  of  the  sign  of  the  Cross  is  an  act  of 
faith.  It  acknowledges  the  Symbol  of  our 
salvation,  is  a  short  Creed  in  action,  and  is 
in  accord  with  ancient  practice. 

Ktieel  on  your  knees  and  remember  the  Pres- 
ence of  God. 

Kneel  or  bow  in  the  Creed  at  the  words  "  And 
was  Incarnate  by  the  Holy  Ghost  of  the 
Virgin  Mary  and  was  made  Man,"  as  an  act 
of  humility  and  an  acknowledgment  of  the 
Mystery  of  the  Incarnation. 

Before  Communicating  kneel  for  a  moment  at 
the  entrance  to  pew,  and  also  before  and 
after  taking  your  place  at  the  Altar  rail,  as  a 
mark  of  reverence  to  Christ  Present  in 
the  Sacrament,  and  in  obedience  to  the 
Scriptural  requirements, "(?  Come  let  us  wor- 
ship and  fall  down  and  kneel  before  the  Lord 
our  Maker.'''  ' 

/;/  Commiinicating,  never  wear  gloves  but  let 
the  Priest  place  the  Consecrated  Bread  in 
the  palm  of  the  right  hand,  crossed  over  the 
left  to  make  a  cross  or  throne.  Never 
take  the  Chalice  but  see  that  you  receive  the 
Consecrated  Wineby^«zV//«^  the  Chalice  by 
the  base^  as  the  Priest  holds  it.  Never  allow 
the  Sacred  Elements  to  fall,  as  they  are  the 
Body  and  Blood  of  Christ.  Never  use  a 
handkerchief  after  receiving.  If  a  woman 
never  fail  to  raise  your  veil. 

Read  a  Short  Thanksgiving  before  leaving 
Church  and  on  the  way  home  observe  the 
rule  of  silence,  thinking  of  the  Precious  Gift 
received. 

^  Psalm  xcv.  6. 


RlTUAIv   AND   CKRKMONIAI.  4I 

In  following  such  practices,  however,  it  must 
not  be  forgotten  that  mere  Ceremonial  is  worth- 
less. Its  greatest  enemies  are  those  who  make 
it  an  end  in  itself  instead  of  a  means  to  an  end, 
whose  devotion  centres  in  Ceremonial  instead  of 
passing  through  it  to  rest  in  Goo.  Its  truest 
lovers  are  those  who  use  Ceremonial  but  as  an 
adjunct  and  accessory  to  worship,  yet  if  occasion 
required,  could  forego  it  all,  without  lessening 
their  devotion,  since  they  have  made  it  but  the 
outward  expression  of  the  inward  aspiration  of 
the  soul,  of  that  spiritual  worship  that  centres 
in  God  and  not  in  creatures. 

It  is  important  therefore  to  remember  that  the 
principle  which  determines  both  the  spirit  and 
fashion  of  all  worship,  is  that  of  honouring 
our  Blessed  Lord  and  Saviour.  If  we  are 
mindful  of  Him,  as  the  Object  of  our  Devotion, 
we  shall  not  be  wanting  either  in  the  spirit  or 
expression  of  reverence. 


THE    CHURCH    CATECHISM. 


THE  Church  Catechism  is  a  short  instruction 
on  Christian  doctrine.  Though  rudimen- 
tary and  compiled  with  the  evident  inten- 
tion of  being  enlarged,  it  is  complete,  in  the 
sense  that  what  is  not  explicitly  set  forth  is  im- 
plied. This  instruction  is  divided  into  five  dis- 
tinct parts  showing  a  logical  order  or  progression, 
as  follows  : 

I.  The  Christian  Covenant,  or  the  Bap- 
tismal Vows. 

H.  The  Creed,  or  the  Declaration  of  the 
Faith  of  the  Church. 

III.  The  Commandments,  or  the  Laws 
of  Holy  Living. 

IV.  The  Lord's  Prayer,  or  the  Divine 
Model  of  Prayer. 

V.  The  Sacraments,  or  the  appointed 
means  of  grace. 

The  questions  and  answers  of  the  Catechism, 
which  it  is  advisable  that  all  should  read  and 
study,  may  be  supplemented  bv  the  following 
brief  notes. 


42 


THE  CHRISTIAN  COVENANT  43 


THE  CHRISTIAN  COVENANT 

The  Sacred  Rite  of  Baptism  is  one  of  the 
two  Divinely  appointed  Sacraments  generally 
necessary  to  Salvation.  It  is  administered  with 
water  in  the  Name  of  the  Father,  Son  and 
Holy  Ghost,  and  confers  the  gifts  of  Regen- 
eration, Forgiveness  of  Sins,  and  Grace,  and  the 
Character  of  a  Christian.  It  makes  the  recip- 
ient :  "a  member  of  Christ'^  or  part  of  our 
Lord's  Mystical  Body,  the  Church,  in  which  all 
Christians,  like  branches  of  a  tree,  are  members 
one  of  another  and  draw  their  life,  light  and 
strength  from  Christ  the  Head  ;  "  the  child  of 
God,^^  or  God's  Son  by  adoption  and  grace, 
through  Christ,  His  Son  by  Nature,  so  that  all 
can  love  and  pray  to  God  as  ' '  Father  "  ;  "  an  in- 
heritor of  the  Kingdom  of  Heaven,''  or  heir  to 
all  the  privileges  of  the  Church,  such  as  Holy 
Communion  in  this  world  and  everlasting  joy  in 
the  world  to  come. 

Holy  Baptism  is  sometimes  called  "Christen- 
ing "  because  a  name  ^  is  given  at  the  pouring  on 
of  water  in  the  Name  of  the  Blessed  Trinity. 
This  name  should  be  a  constant  reminder  of  the 
solemn  promise  to  follow  in  the  profession  and 
religion  of  Jesus  Christ.  The  Baptismal  Vow 
or  Christian  Covenant  is  a  three-fold  promise 
made  by  the  individual,  if  of  sufficient  age,  or 
else  by  those  who  stand  for  him,  who  are  called 
Sponsors  because  they  answer  or  respond  to  the 
questions,  and  Goo-parents  because  they  bring 
the  child  to  God.     The  baptized  becomes  re- 

^  N.  or  M.  in  the  Catechism  stand  for  nomen,  nomina, 
name  or  names. 


44  The:  church  catechism 

sponsible  for  the  fulfillment  of  the  promises,  on 
reaching  years  of  discretion,  that  is  when  he 
can  judge  between  right  and  wrong. 

The  promises  made  are  three  :  (i)  "  to  renounce 
the  Devil  and  all  his  uwrks,^''  or  sin  generally, 
and  especially  spiritual  and  intellectual  pride 
which  lead  to  unbelief;  "  the  pomps  and  vanities 
of  this  7vicked  7uorld,'''  or  vain  ambition  and 
worldliness  such  as  too  great  love  of  pleasure 
and  riches,  which  are  "pomps,"  because  they 
make  a  great  show,  and  "vanities"  because 
empty  of  lasting  joy  ;  "  and  all  the  sinful  lusts 
of  the  flesh,''  or  sins  of  the  body  such  as  impu- 
rity, intemperance,  sloth  and  gluttony  ;  (2)  "  to 
believe  all  the  articles  of  the  Christian  Faith,'' 
or  assent  to  the  doctrines  declared  in  the  Creed 
of  the  Church  ;  (3)  "  to  keep  GoD'sHoly  Will  and 
Commandments  and  walk  in  the  same  all  the 
days  "  of  our  life,  or  by  God's  Grace  to  conse- 
crate one's  life  to  His  Service  in  holy  living.  By 
this  Covenant  man  promises  repentance  for  the 
past,  faith  for  the  present,  obedience  for  the 
future,  and  God  promises  pardon  for  the  past, 
grace  for  the  present,  glory  for  the  future. 

II 

THE  CREED  OF  THE  CHURCH 

A  right  life  being  largely  dependent  on  a  right 
Belief  or  a  positive,  definite  Faith,  the  Creed  is 
next  set  forth.  The  Belief  of  the  Church,  having 
been  known  and  held  by  all  of  the  faithful,  was 
not  at  first  put  into  writing.  Later,  the  spread  of 
Christianity  made  this  necessary,  in  order  the 
better  to  teach  the  people  and  condemn  error. 
The  Scriptures  contain  many  dogmatic  declara- 
tions or  fragments  of  a  Creed,  which  prove  that 


THE  CREED  OF  THE  CHURCH  45 

definite  expositions  of  the  Faith  preceded  the 
written  Bible.  Each  article  of  the  Creed  how- 
ever appeals  to  the  Scriptures,  as  a  witness  of  its 
truth,  the  Church,  which  guided  by  the  Holy 
Ghost  gave  us  both  Creed  and  Scripture,  being 
the  authority  for  both.  The  Apostles'  Creed, 
the  Nicene  Creed  and  the  Athanasian  Creed  are 
but  three  declarations  '  of  the  same  belief,  the 
first  named  being  the  simple  statement  of 
the  facts  of  Revelation,  the  others  being 
the  fuller  expression  of  their  doctrinal  signifi- 
cance. In  its  original  form  the  Apostles'  Creed 
was  one  of  the  earliest  in  use,  but  as  we  now 
have  it,  is  probably  of  later  date  than  the  Nicene. 
Some  think  it  is  so  named  from  the  tradition  of 
its  having  been  compiled  by  the  Apostles  ;  others 
from  its  reputed  use  in  the  Apostolic  Church  of 
Rome.  Very  probably  its  title  arose  from  the 
fact  of  it  having  been  the  Creed  of  the  Primitive 
Church,  setting  forth  the  Apostles'  doctrine. 

The  Nicene  Creed  was  compiled  and  authori- 
tatively set  forth  by  the  First  Oecumenical 
Council  of  Nicaea  in  325  a.d.,  with  the  pri- 
mary object  of  condemning  the  Arian  heresy. 
As  first  issued,  it  ended  with  the  words  "  I  be- 
lieve in  the  Holy  Ghost,"  the  succeeding 
clauses  having  been  added  by  the  Council  of 
Constantinople  in  3S1  A.D.  The  Athanasian 
Creed,  or  Hymn  of  S.  Athanasius,  was  probably 
written  by  S.  Hilary,  the  Bishop  of  Poictiers,  to 
explain  the  teaching  of  Athanasius.  It  is  in 
Latin,  the  other  Creeds  being  in  Greek.  It  is 
the  most  accurate  definition  of  the  Mysteries  of 
the  Trinity  and  the  Incarnation  anywheres  to 
be  found  in  Theology. 

^It  may  be  noted  that  the  Te  Deum  Laudantus  is  also 
a  Creed,  though  used  as  a  Hymn  of  Praise. 


46 


THE  CHURCH  CATECHISM 


The  Nicene  Creed. 

1.  I  believe  in  One  GOD  the 
Father  Almighty,  Maker  of 
Heaven  and  earth,  and  of  all 
things  visible  and  invisible  ; 

2.  And  in  One  LORD  Jesus 
Christ,  the  Only  Begotten 
Son  of  God  ;  Begotten  of  His 
Father  before  all  worlds,  GOD 
of  God,  Light  of  Light,  Very 
God  of  Very  God;  Begotten, 
not  made;  Being  of  One  Sub- 
stance with  the  Father ;  by 
Whom  all  things  were  made; 
Who  for  us  men  and  for  our 
Salvation  came  down  from 
Heaven,  And  was  Incarnate  by 
the  Holy  Ghost  of  the  Virgin 
Mary,  And  was  made  Man ; 
And  was  Crucified  also  for  us 
under  Pontius  Pilate  ;  He 
suffered  and  was  Buried;  And 
the  third  ilay  He  Rose  again 
according  to  the  Scriptures  • 
And  ascended  into  Heaven; 
And  sitteth  at  the  Right  Hand 
of  the  Father ;  And  He  shall 
come  again,  with  Glory,  to 
Judge  both  the  quick  and  the 
dead ;  AVhose  Kingdom  shall 
have  no  end. 

3.  And  I  believe  in  the  Holy 
Ghost,  the  Lord  and  Giver  of 
Life,  Who  proceedeth  from  the 
Father  and  the  Son  ;  Who 
with  the  Father  and  the  Son 
together  is  worshipped  and 
glorified  ;  Who  spake  by  the 
Prophets  : 

4.  And  I  believe  One  Cath- 
olic and  Apostolic  Church  : 

5.  I  acknowledge  One  Bap- 
tism for  the  remission  of  sins  ; 

6.  And  I  look  for  the  Resur- 
rection of  the  dead : 

7.  And  the  life  of  the  world 
to  come.    Amen. 


The  Apostles  Creed. 

I.  I  believe  in  GOD,  the 
Father  Almighty,  Maker  of 
Heaven  and  earth  ; 


2.  And       in      Jesus     Christ 
His  Only  Son,  our  LORD: 


Who  was  conceived  by  the 
Holy  Ghost,  Born  of  the  Virgin 
Mary:  suffered  under  Pontius 
Pilate,  was  Crucified,  Dead 
and  Buried:  He  descendedin- 
to  Hell ;  the  third  day  He  Rose 
again  from  the  dead;  He  as- 
cended into  Heaven;  And 
sitteth  on  the  Right  Hand  of 
God  the  Father  Almighty; 
From  thence  He  shall  come  to 
Judge  the  quick  and  the  dead. 


3.  I    believe    in    the    Holy 
Ghost; 


4.  The  Holy  Catholic  Church; 
The  Communion  0/  Saints: 

5.  Tlie  Forgiveness  of  Sins; 

6.  The  Resurrection  of  the 
Body  ; 

7.  And  the  Life  Everlasting. 
Amen. 


The  AtJianasian  Creed. 

Whosoever  will  be  saved  :  before  all  things  it  is  necessary  that 
he  hold  the  Catholic  Faith,  which  Faith  except  every  one  do  keep 
whole  and  undefiled,  without  doubt  he  shall  perish  everlastingly. 
And  the  Catholic  Faith  is  this: 

I,  3.  That  we  worship  One  GOD  in  Trinity,  and  Trinity  in  Unity  ; 
Neither  confounding  the  Persons;  nor  dividing  the  Substance. 
For  there  is  One  Person  of  the  Father,  another  of  the  Son;  and 


THE  CREED  OE  THE  CHURCH     47 


another  of  the  Holy  Ghost.  But  the  Godhead  of  the  Father,  of  the 
Son  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost  is  all  one  ;  the  Glory  equal,  the 
Majesty  co-eternal.  Such  as  the  Tather  is,  such  is  the  Son:  and 
such  is  the  Holy  Ghost.  The  Father  uncreate,  the  Son  uncreate; 
and  the  Holy  Ghost  uncreate.  The  Father  incomprehensible  ;  the 
Son' incomprehensible ;  and  the  Holy  Ghost  incomprehensible. 
The  Father  eternal,  the  Son  eternal ;  and  the  Holy  Ghost  eternal. 
And  yet  there  are  not  three  eternals  ;  but  one  eternal. 
As  also  there  are  notthree  incomprehensibles  nor  three  uncreated; 
but  one  uncreated  and  one  incomprehensible.  So  likewise  the 
Father  is  Almighty,  the  Son  Almi<;hty:  and  the  Holy  Ghost  Al- 
mighty. And  yet  there  are  not  three  Almighties;  but  one  Al- 
mighty. So  the  Father  is  GOD,  the  Son  is  GOD:  and  the  Holy 
Ghost  is  God.  And  yet  there  are  not  three  GODS;  but  one  GOD. 
So  likewise  the  Father  is  LORD,  the  Son  LORD:  and  the  Holy 
Ghost  Lord.  And  yet  are  not  three  LORDS :  but  one 
Lord.  For  like  as  we  are  compelled  by  the  Christian  verity 
to  acknowledge  every  Person  by  Himself  to  be  GOD  and  LORD; 
so  are  we  forbidden  by  the  Catholic  Religion:  to  say  there  be  three 
Gods,  or  three  LORDS.  The  Father  is  made  of  none  :  neither 
created  or  begotten.  The  Son  is  of  the  Father  alone;  not  made 
nor  created  but  begotten.  The  Holy  Ghost  is  of  the  Father  and  of 
the  Son;  neither  made,  nor  created,  nor  begotten,  but  proceeding. 
So  there  is  one  Father,  not  three  Fathers;  one  Son,  not  three 
Sons:  one  Holy  Ghost,  not  three  Holy  Ghosts.  And  in  this 
Trinity  none  is  afore,  or  after  other:  none  is  greater,  or  less  than 
another ;  But  the  Whole  three  Persons  are  co-eternal  together  :  and 
co-equal.  So  that  in  all  things,  as  is  aforesaid :  the  Unity  in 
Trinity,  and  the  Trinity  in  Unity,  is  to  be  worshipped.  He  there- 
fore that  will  be  saved;    must  thus  think  of  the  Trinity. 

2.  Furthermore,  it  is  necessary  to  everlasting  salvation :  that  he 
also  believe  rightly  the  Incarnation  of  our  LORD  Jesus  Christ. 
For  the  right  Faith  is,  that  we  believe  and  confess  ;  that  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  Son  of  GOD,  is  GOD  and  Man  ;  GOD,  of 
tlie  substance  of  the  Father,  begotten  before  the  worlds:  and  Man, 
of  the  Substance  of  His  Mother,  born  in  the  world;  Perfect  GOD, 
and  Perfect  Man,  of  a  reasonable  soul  and  human  flesh  subsisting. 
Equal  to  the  Father,  as  touching  His  Godhead  ;  and  inferior  to  the 
Father,  as  touching  His  Manhood.  A\'ho  although  He  be  GOD  and 
Man:  yet  He  is  not  two  but  one  Christ;  One  :  not  by  conversion 
of  the  Godhead  into  flesh:  but  by  taking  of  the  Manhood  into 
GOD;  One  altogether;  not  by  confusion  of  Substance;  but  by 
Unity  of  Person.  For  as  the  reasonable  soul  and  flesh  is  one 
man :  so  God  and  Man  is  one  Christ;  Who  suffered  for  our 
salvation  :  descended  intci  hell ;  rose  again  the  third  day  from  the 
dead.  He  ascended  into  Heaven,  He  sitteth  on  the  Right  hand  of 
the  Father,  GOD  Almighty  :  from  whence  He  shall  come  to  judge 
the  quick  and  the  dead.  (6)  At  Whose  coming  all  men  shall  rise 
again  with  their  bodies  :  and  shall  give  account  for  their  own 
works.  (7)  And  they  that  have  done  good  shall  go  into  life 
everlasting  :  and  they  that  have  done  evil  into  everlasting  fire. 

This  is  the  Catholic  Faith  ;  which  except  a  man  believe  faithfully 
he  cannot  be  saved.  1 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  and  to  the  Son,  and  to  the  Holy  Ghost. 
As  it  was  in  the  beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  shall  be,  world  with- 
out end.    Amen. 

t  The  so  called  "damnatory  clauses"  only  apply  to  those  who 
deliberately,  -willijigly  and  knowingly  reject  the  Catholic  Faith, 
when  clearly  presented  to  their  conscience  and  reason. 


48  THE  CHURCH   CATECHISM 

The  similarity  of  the  three  Creeds  is  seen  at  a 
glance,  the  Nicene  and  the  Athanasian  forms 
being  doctrinal  explanations  of  the  simple  state- 
ments of  the  Apostles'  Creed.  The  two  itali- 
cized clauses  in  the  Apostles'  Creed  are  not  in  the 
Nicene,  but  the  first  of  them  is  proved  by  the 
Epistle  of  Saint  Peter  and  appears  in  the  Atha- 
nasian Creed,  and  the  second  of  them  is  em- 
bodied in  the  declaration  on  the  Church.  To 
know  the  statements  and  explanations  of  these 
three  forms  of  a  Common  Creed  is  to  under- 
stand, as  far  as  man  can  understand,  the  doc- 
trines of  the  Catholic  Faith. 

The  Creed  is  in  reality  founded  upon  the 
Baptismal  Formula  given  by  our  Lord  in  the 
words  :  "  C^  ye  therefore  and  teach  all  nations^ 
baptising  the^n  in  the  name  of  the  Father  and  of 
the  Son  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost:  teaching  them  to 
observe  all  things  whatsoever  I  have  commanded 
you.^' '  This  may  be  separated  into  the  follow- 
ing main  divisions  or  declarations  : 

I.  The  Mystery  of  the  Trinity  : 

(  The  Father, 

-]  The  Son, 

(  The  Holy  Ghost. 

II.  The  Incarnate  Life  of  our  Lord  ; 

III.  The  Person  and  Work  of  the  Holy 

Ghost  ; 

IV.  The  Holy   Catholic  and  Apostolic 

Church  ; 

V.  The  Forgiveness  of  Sins  ; 

VI.  The  Resurrection  of  the  Body  ; 

VII.  The  Life  Everlasting. 

The  following  may  be  by  way  of  explanation  : 
^  S.  Matthew,  xxvlii.  ig,  20. 


THE  CREED  OF  THE  CHURCH  49 

I.    The  Mystery  of  the  Trinity.     The 

existence  of  God  as  the  Creator  and  Controller 
of  all  things  is  proved  by  the  works  of  nature, 
the  voice  of  conscience,  and  the  existence  of  the 
soul.  In  addition,  God  has  given  us  the 
knowledge  of  Himself  in  the  revelation  of 
Jesus  Christ,  His  Only  Begotten  Son,  Who 
hath  declared  Him,  This  revelation,  which  we 
call  the  Mystery  of  the  Eternal  and  Ever  Blessed 
Trinity,  is  that  God  is  "  One  God,  One  Lord  ; 
not  One  Only  Person  but  Three  Persons '  in 
One  Substance.  For  that  which  we  believe  of 
the  Glory  of  the  Father  the  same  we  believe 
of  the  Son  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  without 
any  difference  or  inequality."  '■^  Thus  we  say  in 
the  Athanasian  Creed  "  the  Father  is  God,  the 
vSoN  is  God,  the  Holy  Ghost  is  God.  And  yet 
there  are  not  three  Gods  but  One  God." 
God  is  Eternal,  without  beginning  or  end. 
Incomprehensible,  Who  cannot  be  understood 
by  the  human  mind,  Ineffable,  Who  cannot  be 
described  by  human  language. 

God  is  Spirit  and  is  Omnipotent,  Omniscient 
and  Infinite,  therefore  we  finite  beings  who  are 
below  cannot  comprehend  the  Infinite  One  Who 
is  Above.  We  can  however,  in  perfect  love  and 
trust  turn  to  God  as  possessing  all  wisdom, 
knowledge  and  power.  We  can  know  Him  as  in- 
finitely Loving,  Good,  Merciful  and  Just,  His 
Love  being  shown  in  our  creation,  preservation 
and  redemption,  His  Goodness  in  our  spiritual  and 
temporal  blessings.  His  Mercy  in  the  remission 
of  our  sins.  His  Justice  in  the  reward  of  the 
good  and  the  punishment  of  the  wicked.     Thus 

^  Person  in  Theoloey  has  been  defined  as  "  Individual 
Conscious  Existence.' 

^  Special  P.  B.  Preface  for  Trinity  Sunday. 
4 


50  THE   CHURCH    CATECHISM 

we  can  best  think  of  God  as  the  Father,  Who 
made  us,  the  Son,  Who  redeemed  us,  the  Holy 
Ghost,  Who  sanctifieth  us,  Three  Persons  in 
One  God,  Who  is  Love,  Light  and  Life. 

II.    The  Incarnate  Life  of  Our  Lord. 

The  doctrine  of  the  Licarnation  is  that  the 
Word  of  God,  the  Only  Begotten  Son  of  the 
Father,  for  us  men  and  for  our  Salvation  came 
down  from  Heaven,  was  Conceived  by  the  Holy 
Ghost,  Born  of  the  Virgin  Mary'  and  was  made 
Man,  the  Word  made  Flesh,  He  is  Perfect 
God  of  the  Substance  of  the  Father,  and  Per- 
fect Man,  of  the  Substance  of  His  Mother, 
having  two  whole  and  perfect  Natures,  Divine 
and  liuman,  in  One  Person,  the  Person  of 
the  Word,  "  not  by  conversion  of  the  Godhead 
into  Flesh,  but  by  taking  the  Manhood  into 
GoD."^  He  is  our  Lord,  having  all  power  in 
Heaven  and  earth, ^  Kii^g  of  Kings  and  Lord  of 
Lords.  He  is  called  Jesus,  Saviour,  because 
He  saves  us  from  our  sins,  Christ,  Anointed, 
as  Prophet,  Priest  and  King.  He  is  the  Lamb 
of  God  from  the  foundation  of  the  world,  be- 
cause He  offered  Himself  a  Sacrifice  upon  the 
Cross.  He  is  the  Lord  our  Righteousness,  be- 
cause in  and  through  Him  we  are  made  holy  and 
acceptable  before  GoD.  As  the  Son  of  God  He 
is  the  King  of  Glory  and  the  Head  of  the 
Church  ;  as  the  Son  of  Man  He  is  the  Seed  of  the 

1  S.  Mary  is  called  by  S.  Luke  "  the  Mother  of_  the 
Lord,"  and  by  a  Council  "  the  Mother  of  God,"  i.  e., 
shewho  brought  forth  Him  who  was  God.  Conceived  ac- 
cording to  the  flesh  slie  calls  her  Divine  Son,  Saviour,  and 
benefitted  by  the  Sacrifice  of  the  Cross.  Sanctified  ac- 
cording to  the  Spirit  she  was  the  Instrument  of  the  Incar- 
nation, and  Ever-Virgin.  We  reverence  and  honour  the 
B.V.M.  as  ''''blessed  among  7vomeny  We  worship  and 
adore  Christ  as  Lord  and  Master  of  all. 

^  Athanasian  Creed.  ^  S.  Matthew,  xxviii.  i3. 


THE   CRKED  OK  THE  CHURCH  5I 

Woman  and  the  Judge  of  all  men.  This  is  the 
Mystery  of  the  Incarnation,  In  His  manifest- 
ation on  earth  we  may  contemplate  Christ's  In- 
carnate Life  as  follows :  He  as  our  Lord 
came  to  be  "  tempted  in  all  points  like  as  %ve  are 
yet  without  sin,'"^  that  we  might  copy  the  Ex- 
ample of  His  beautiful  Life.  He  ""  7oent  abont 
doing  good, '"^  working  His  Miracles,  teaching 
His  Parables,  preaching  the  Gospel  of  Salva- 
tion. He  ''''pleased  not  Himself,'''''^  but  in 
all  things  fulfilled  the  Will  of  Him  Who  sent 
Him,^  to  give  His  Life  a  ransom  for  many. ^  He 
was  the  ''''Man  of  Sorrows,^' ^  and  acquainted 
with  grief,^  constantly  persecuted,  reviled  and 
misunderstood. 

His  Conception  is  known  as  the  Incarnation, 
His  Birth  as  the  N'ativity,  His  sojourn  in  the 
wilderness  as  the  Temptation;  His  Sufferings  and 
Bloody  Sweat  in  the  Garden  of  Gethsemane,  the 
Agony,  His  being  taken  by  Judas,  the  Betrayal, 
His  Sufferings  before  Annas,  Caiaphas,  Herod 
and  Pilate,  the  Passion,"^  His  bearing  the  Cross 
to  Calvary,  the  Way  of  Sorrows,  His  being 
nailed  to  the  Tree,  the  Cmcifixion,  His  Death, 
the  Giving  up  of  the  Ghost,^  His  being  laid  in 
the  Sepulchre,  the  Entojnbment ;  His  Rising 
from  the  Dead,  the  Resurrection;  His  departure 
into  Heaven,  the  Ascension,  His  Glory  at  the 
Right  Hand  of  God,  the  Session;  His  Second 

^  Hebrews  iv.  15.       ^  Romans  xv.  3.       ^  S.  Mark  x.  45. 

2  Acts  X.  38.  ^  S.  John  iv.  34.       ^  Isaiah  liii.  3. 

^  Strictly  speaking  the  Passion  began  at  the  Institution 
of  the  Eucharist  and  ended  on  the  Cross. 

^Christ's  Body  rested  in  the  Tomb,  His  Spirit  went 
to  the  Place  of  Departed  Spirits  (the  Hades  or  Hell  of  the 
Creed,  not  Gehenna,  the  abode  of  the  lost)  but  Body  and 
Soul  were  both  joined  to  His  Divinity.  During  this  time 
He  offered  Salvation  to  those  who  had  gone  before. 
(Epistle  S.  Peter.) 


52  THK   CHURCH   CATECHISM 

Coming  in  the  Clouds  of  Heaven  to  judge  both 
the  quick  and  the  dead,  the  Last  Jiidgment. 
The  Resurrection  of  our  Lord  is  the  great  truth 
and  hope  of  our  Religion,  for  as  S.  Paul  said, 
".  .  if  Christ  be  not  Risen  then  is  our  preaching 
vain  and  your  faith  is  vainy  '  The  Resurrection 
is  the  triumph  of  the  Cross,  a  fact  shadowed 
forth  by  Types  in  the  Old  Testament  and  sup- 
ported by  absolute  proof  to  a  reasonable  mind. 
The  conviction  of  the  xA.postles,  who  had  sunk 
into  utter  despair  and  lack  of  faith,  and  the 
power  of  the  Resurrection  in  the  history  of  the 
Catholic  Church  and  the  lives  of  those  who  be- 
lieve are  the  best  witnesses  of  this  great  doctrine 
of  the  Faith.  Our  Lord  Rose  from  the  dead  by 
His  Own  inherent  power  as  GOD,  passing  through 
the  sealed  rock,  in  Real  but  Glorified  Body,  as 
revealed  at  the  Transfiguration.  After  His 
Resurrection,  during  His  sojourn  on  earth  for 
forty  days  until  the  Ascension,  He  was  seen 
only  as  He  willed  to  be  seen,  proving  the  Reality 
of  His  Glorified  Body  by  sight, '•^  by  touch,"*  and 
by  taking  food."*  Before  the  Crucifixion  He  may 
be  said  to  have  been  Visible  with  the  power  of 
making  Himself  Unseen.^  After  the  Resurrec- 
tion He  is  Invisible  with  the  power  of  making 
Himself  Seen.  All  worship  of  the  Church  cen- 
tres in  the  Risen  Glorified  Lord. 

III.  The  Person  and  Work  of  the  Holy 
Ghost.  The  Holy  Ghost,  the  Third  Person 
of  the  Blessed  Trinity,  proceeds  from  the  Father 
and  the  Son,  and  as  the  Lord  and  Giver  of  life 
is  with  the  Father  and  the  Son   to   be  wor- 

^  I  Cor.  XV.  14.  2  S.  Luke  xxiv.  31. 

^  S.  John  XX.  27  ;  S.  Luke  xxiv.  3g. 

■*  S.  Luke  xxiv.  43.      ^  S.  John  viii.  59  ;  S.  Luke  iv.  30, 


The  creed  of  the  church         53 

shipped  and  glorified.  He  is  the  Comforter  of 
the  Church  and  the  Witness  of  the  Truth,  con- 
vincing of  sin,  of  righteousness  and  of  judgment.' 
lie  spoke  in  and  by  the  Prophets  and  inspired 
the  Sacred  Scriptures.  He  is  the  Spirit  of  Life 
ever  abiding  in  the  Church,  teaching  of  God, 
speaking  through  Conscience,  striving  with  sin- 
ners, working  in  the  Sacraments,  perfecting  the 
saints,  directing  and  counselling  the  servants  of 
God.  The  Bible  tells  us  that  Blasphemy  against 
the  Holy  Ghost  is  never  forgiven.^  This  is 
probably  no  one  act  of  wrong-doing  but  rather 
the  refusal  to  believe  in  the  Holy  Ghost,  and 
the  constant  disregard  of  His  warnings,  leading 
to  persistence  in  sin,  darkness  of  the  Conscience 
and  final  impenitence.  Prayer  to  and  invocation 
of  the  Holy  Ghost  is  a  duty  and  privilege  en- 
joined by  Scripture  but  too  often  forgotten  or 
neglected.  The  spiritual  life  will  be  greatly 
helped  and  strengthened  if  this  holy  practice  is 
more  generally  followed.  We  all  need  to  say 
"  Come  Holy  Ghost,  our  souls  inspire." 

IV.  The  Holy  Catholic  and  Apostolic 
Church.  The  Church,  the  Body  of  Christ,  on 
its  invisible  side  is  the  Mystical  Union  of  be- 
lievers with  the  Head,  Christ  our  Lord,  and 
on  its  visible  side  is  the  union  of  believers  hav- 
ing the  marks  of  a  visible  organization  in  the 
Ministry,  the  Word  and  the  Sacraments.  The 
Church  is  therefore  not  an  earthly  organization 
but  a  Divine  Institution,  founded  and  commis- 
sioned by  our  Lord,  the  Rock  and  Corner 
Stone  on  Whom  it  is  built  and  the  Head  from 
Whom  its  members  derive  their  life,  and  through 
Whom  they  are  members  one  of  another.      This 

^  S.  John  X)'.  8.  -  S.  Mark  iii.  29. 


54  The  church  catechism 

Fellowship  is  known  as  the  Commnnion  of 
Saints  and  embraces  both  the  living  and  the 
dead.  The  Church  is  (9«^  because  Christ  insti- 
tuted one  Body,  with  one  Faith,  one  Lord,  one 
Baptism.  All  baptized  persons  are  members  of 
the  Church  Catholic,  but  only  those  enjoy  its  full 
privileges  and  life  who  are  found  in  those  parts 
of  the  Church  which  possess  the  necessary  notes 
of  Apostolic  Order  and  Ministration,  as  the  An- 
glican, Eastern  and  Roman  Communions.  The 
Church  is  Holy  because  she  is  the  Temple  of 
the  Holy  Ghost,  because  her  Doctrine,  Disci- 
pline, Sacraments  and  Worship  are  holy,  and  be- 
cause her  members  are  pledged  to  try  to  live  a 
holy  life  patterned  after  Christ,  each  sin  of  the 
individual  being  a  sin  against  the  whole  body  of 
the  Church.  The  Church  is  Catholic  because  for 
all  peoples,  all  times,  all  places,  and  because  she 
alone  ministers  to  all  the  needs  of  man's  nature. 
The  Church  is  Apostolic  because  she  holds  the 
"Faith  once  delivered  to  the  Saints."'  The 
Church  is  directed  by  the  Holy  Ghost  and  is 
the  Preserver  of  Truth,  the  Dispenser  of  Grace, 
the  Guide  in  Morals.  Her  members  are  bound 
to  believe  all  that  she  teaches  explicitly  or  im- 
plicitly, which  has  been  tested  by  the  Rule  of  S. 
Vincent,  that  is  :  has  been  believed"  every  wheres, 
always  and  by  all  men."  The  Apostolic  Minis- 
try consists  of  the  Three  Orders,  of  Bishops, 
Priests  and  Deacons,  who  are  ordained  by  the  lay- 
ing on  of  hands  of  the  Bishops,  thus  perpetuating 
the  Apostolic  Succession  and  conferring  the 
character  of  their  office.  Episcopal  Ordination 
is  absolutely  necessary  to  a  valid  Ministry,  it 
being  well  said  in  Ancient  times,  that  "  Where 

»  S.  Jude. 


THE  cree:d  of  the  church  55 

is  the  Bishop,  there  is  the  Church."  The  Priests 
stand  as  the  Ambassadors  of  Christ,'  sent  by 
our  Lord  as  the  Father  sent  Him.'  Their 
special  work  is  to  pray  in  Christ's  Stead,'  to 
celebrate  the  Holy  Communion,^  and  by  the 
Power  committed  ■*  unto  them  to  absolve  from 
sin,'*  in  the  Ministry  of  Reconciliation.^  The 
Bishops  are  chosen  Priests  consecrated  to  be  the 
governing  body  of  the  Church,  their  special 
prerogatives  being  to  Ordain,  Confirm  and  Con- 
secrate. The  Deacons  assist  in  the  Cure  of 
Souls,  but  cannot  Absolve,  Bless,  or  Offer  the 
Holy  Eucharist. 

V.  The  Forgiveness  of  Sins.    Our  Lord 

taught  that  '"'the  Son  of  ATan  hath  potver  on 
earth  to  forgive  sins.''''  ^  This  power  He  gave  to 
His  Apostles,^  and  their  Successors,  who  at  His 
command,  by  virtue  of  their  Office  as  Priests 
and  Representatives  of  Christ,'^  declare  God's 
Forgiveness  of  sins.  This  remission  of  sins  is 
given  :  (i)  in  Holy  Baptism,  which  cleanses  from 
both  original  and  ante-baptismal  sin,  (2)  in 
Absolution  when  GoD  through  the  Priesthood 
assures  the  penitent  of  forgiveness,  (3)  in  Holy 
Comiminion,  which  remits  sins  to  those  who 
rightly  receive. 

VI.  The  Resurrection  of  the  Body.   At 

death  the  soul  is  severed  from  the  body,  the 
body  being  committed  to  the  grave,  while  the 
soul  goes  to  the  Place  of  Departed  Spirits, 
where  after  judgment,''  the  souls  of  the  saved  are 
purified  and  prepared  for  Heaven.     At  the  Last 

^  2  Cor.  V.  20.      ^  S.  John  xx.  21.       ^  S.  Luke  xxii,  ig. 

*  S.  John  XX.  22,  23  ;  and  Ordination  Office.  _ 

^  2  Cor.  V.  ig.  ®  S.  Mark  ii.  10. 

7  Sometimes  called  the  Particular  Judgment. 


56  The  church  catechism 

Day,  when  the  dead  shall  rise,  the  body  and 
soul  are  reunited,  the  body  being  essentially 
the  same  as  it  was  before  death,  but  then 
glorified  and  transfigured  after  the  manner 
of  our  Lord's  Risen  Body,  and  no  longer  sub- 
ject to  the  limitation  of  its  former  condition. 
Our  bodies  will  awake,  as  the  Psalmist  beauti- 
fully says  "'After  His  Likejtess,  Satisfied.''''  ' 

VII.  The  Life  Everlasting.  At  the  Resur- 
rection all,  good  or  evil,  will  appear  before 
the  Judgment  Throne  of  Christ,  rising  in  the 
air  2  to  meet  Him  as  He  descends,  surrounded 
by  the  Angels  and  the  clouds  of  glory.  Then 
will  be  pronounced  the  Last  Judgment.  The 
wicked  will  go  into  everlasting  torment,  shut 
out  from  the  sight  of  GoD,  where  there  will  be 
the  fire  unquenchable,  the  darkness  of  despair, 
the  wailing  and  gnashing  of  teeth  in  anguish,  the 
worm  of  unavailing  remorse,  the  endless  com- 
panionship of  lost  souls,  and  the  knowledge 
that  heaven  was  lost  through  their  own  fault, 
God  having  done  everything  but  force  their  will. 
Those  who  have  faithfully  striven  to  serve  God, 
who  died  repentant  in  the  communion  of  the 
Catholic  Church,  will  enter  into  everlasting  joy, 
where  there  is  laid  up  for  those  who  love  God 
such  good  things  as  passeth  man's  understand- 
ing. In  Heaven  childhood  and  age  with  their 
limitations,  and  also  all  marks  of  disease  and  dis- 
figurement will  be  no  more,  for  the  redeemed 
will  rise  in  all  the  perfection  of  ''the  measure  of 
the  stature  of  the  fullness  of  Chkist.^^  ^  There 
no  worldly  distinction  of  birth  and  position, 
riches   and   talent  will  obtain,  for  though  there 

^  Psalm  xvii.  15. 

^  I  Thcss.  iv,  16,  17.  ^  Ephesians  i\'.  13. 


THK   TEN   COMMANDMENTS  57 

are  many  mansions  in  those  Heavenly  places, 
the  differences  and  degrees  are  those  in  power 
to  love  and  appreciate  God  and  His  Glory, 
which  power  comes  from  cultivating  the  spiritual 
life  on  earth  which  is  the  place  of  prepara- 
tion for  the  life  above.  Yet  there  will  be  a 
common  joy  in  the  knowledge  and  love  of  God, 
in  the  possession  of  rest  and  peace,  in  the  offer- 
ing of  praise  and  worship.  There  God  will 
wipe  away  all  tears  from  the  eye.  No  more 
will  there  be  the  night  of  trial  or  temptation, 
doubt  or  sorrow;  no  longer  will  there  be  the  sea 
of  separation  and  loneliness.  There  will  be  the 
Beatific  Vision  of  God  in  His  Glory,  the  Father 
Who  made  us,  the  Son  Who  Redeemed  us,  the 
Holy  Ghost  Who  Sanctifieth  us.  There  those 
who  have  turned  many  to  righteousness '  shall 
shine  "  as  the  stars  forever  and  ever  "  ^  differing 
in  glory,  as  one  star  from  another,-  but  all  filled 
with  the  unutterable  joy  of  knowing  and  shar- 
ing in  the  Infinite  Love  of  GOD. 

in 

THE  TEN  COMiMANDMENTS 

Having  found  what  we  must  believe  as  set 
forth  in  the  Creed,  we  now  come  to  see  what 
we  must  do  and  not  do  to  be  pleasing  to  GOD. 
These  Commandments  or  Laws  of  Holy  Living 
were  first  spoken '  by  God  from  Mount  Sinai 
amid  thunders  and  lightnings  and  the  blare  of 
trumpets.  Afterwards  they  were  written  ^  on 
two  tables  of  stone  and  given  by  God  to  Moses, 
when    for    forty    days    and   forty   nights   Moses 

^  Daniel  xii.  3.  ^  Exodus  xx.  1-17. 

^  I  Cor.  XV.  41.  *  Exodus  xxxi.  18. 


58  THE^   CHURCH   CATECHISM 

communed  with  God,  veiled  in  the  clouds.  On 
the  breaking  of  these  tables,  Moses,  during  his 
second  sojourn  on  the  mountain,  cut  two  others 
and  wrote  these  Laws  again  at  God's  dictation.' 
According  to  tradition  these  tables  contained 
respectively  four  and  six  Commandments,  the 
first  four  laws  embodying  our  Duty  towards 
God,  the  other  six  our  Duty  towards  our  Neigh- 
bour. They  are  simplified  in  the  Short  Summary 
of  the  Law  spoken  by  our  Lord,  wherein  we 
are  told  that  we  must  love  God  with  all  our 
heart  and  with  all  our  soul  and  with  all  our 
mind  and  our  neighbours  as  ourselves.  The  Ten 
Commandments  may  further  be  explained  as 
teaching  respectively  : 

I.  Our  Duty  towards  God  : 

r       I.    RELIGION. 
J      II.    WORSHIP, 
j   III.    REVERENCE. 
[  IV.    CONSECRATION. 

II.  Our  Duty  towards  our  Neighbour  : 

V.    LOVE. 

VI.  discipline. 
VII.  purity. 
VIII,  honesty. 

IX.    TRUTH. 

X.  contentment. 
To   keep  these  laws  is  to  love    God,    for    our 
Lord  has  told  us,    "'  If  yc  love  Ale,    keep  My 
Covimajidments .''''  ■ 

IV 

THE  LORD'S  PRAYER 

Very  properly  the  Lord's  Prayer  follows  the 
Commandments,  as  it  is  by  prayer  that  we  are 

^  Exodus,  xxxiv.  28.  ^  S.  John  xiv.  15. 


"  WATCH    AND    PRAY    THAT    YE    ENTER    NOT 
INTO    TEMPTATION." 


THE)   I^ORD'S   PRAYER  59 

enabled  to  keep  God's  Laws.  This  Divine 
Pattern  of  Prayer  was  probably  twice  given  by 
our  Blessed  Lord,  once  in  the  Sermon  of  the 
Mount,  as  recorded  by  S.  Matthew,'  again  about 
two  years  later  as  related  by  S.  Luke.^  Short 
as  it  is,  it  gives  the  germ  of  all  proper  prayer 
and  shows  the  spirit  in  which  all  petition  must 
be  made.  The  Lord's  Prayer  is  also  a  Creed 
in  miniature,  its  clauses,  especially  the  first  and 
last,  being  a  confession  of  faith.  It  is  likewise 
a  Summary  of  the  Commandments,  its  first  three 
clauses  setting  forth  our  Duty  towards  GOD,  One 
in  Three,  the  last  four  clauses  our  Duty  tov/ards 
Man,  dwelling  in  the  four  corners  of  the  world. 
Given  by  our  Lord,  it  reveals  the  Mind  of 
God,  and  teaches  :  (i)  that  liturgical  prayer  is 
pleasing  unto  Him  ;  (2)  that  prayer  should  begin 
with  adoration  of  God,  since  the  essence  of 
prayer  is  worship  ;  (3)  that  prayer  must  ask  for 
spiritual  before  earthly  blessings ;  (4)  that 
prayer  must  include  Confession  of  Sin.  The 
Lord's  Prayer  may  be  explained  as  follows  : 

Our  Father.  The  Prayer  begins  by  declaring 
the  Fatherhood  of  God  and  the  Brotherhood  of 
Man.  In  this  bond  of  Christian  Charity  we 
intercede  for  one  another  to  our  One  Father, 
Who  loves  us  all,  rich  or  poor,  high  or  low. 
As  God,  the  Perfect  Father,  He,  of  His  Love 
and  Mercy  hears  us  and  grants  our  prayers 
for  Jesus  Christ,  His  Sake. —  Who  Art  in 
Heaven.  GoD  is  immanent  everywhere,  but 
especially  is  revealed  in  His  Glory  in  Heaven, 
where  Angels  adoring  veil  their  faces.  So  we 
in  spirit  now  contemplate  God  in  Heaven 
which  we  regard  as  our  home  since  God  is  our 

^  S.  Matthew  vi.  9-13.  "^  S.  Luke  xi.  2-4. 


6o  THE   CHURCH    CATECHISM 

Father.  The  purer  our  hearts,  the  clearer  will 
be  the  vision,  for  ^''blessed  are  the  pure  in  heart 
for  they  shall  see  GoD.'"^ — Hallozued  be  Thy 
Name.  In  lowly  adoration  we  venerate  God 
and  acknowledge  the  Holiness  of  His  Name, 
Like  the  shining  of  the  sun  in  his  splendour 
comes  the  vision  of  Heaven,  the  vision  of  Angelic 
Worship,  Angelic  Service,  Angelic  Obedience. 
We  seem  to  hear  the  alleluias  of  the  Celestial 
Choirs,  ''Holy,  Holy,  Holy,  Lord  God  of 
Hosts.  Heaven  and  earth  are  full  of  Thy 
Glory.''''  ^  We  worship  and  adore,  sanctifying 
ourselves  that  we  may  better  glorify  God's  Name. 
—  Thy  Kingdom  Come.  The  vision  fades.  The 
world  with  its  need  rises  in  its  place,  as  we 
pray  the  great  missionary  petition  of  prayer  and 
prophecy.  We  pray  :  (i)  for  the  spread  of 
Christ's  Kingdom,  the  Church,  to  all  the  ends 
of  the  world,  (2)  for  the  Coming  of  His  King- 
dom in  grace  to  our  souls,  in  power  to  our  lives, 
in  salvation  to  all.  We  also  prophesy,  for  we 
look  forward  to  the  final  triumph  of  the  Cross, 
in  the  Universal  and  Everlasting  Sovereignty  of 
Christ  and  the  Church. —  Thy  Will  be  done  on 
earth  as  it  is  in  heaven.  In  humility  we  now 
admit  the  wisdom  of  God's  Will,  so  perfectly 
performed  above,  so  poorly  followed  below. 
We  bow  before  God  and  we  pray  for  the  perfect 
acceptance  of  His  Will,  that  like  the  Blessed 
Virgin  we  may  say  "  Be  it  unto  vie  according  to 
Thy  Word,'''  ^  and  like  the  Angels  may  obey 
Him  Who  must  reign  supreme. — Give  tts  this 
day  our  daily  bread.  This  is  the  great  Euchar- 
istic  prayer,  for  first  we  ask  for  that  super- 
natural Bread,  the  Holy  Communion,  the  Bread 

^  S.  Matthew  v.  8.       ^  Isaiah  vi.  1-3.       ^  S.  Luke  i.  38. 


THE  IvOrd's  prayer  6i 

of  Life,  which  we  pray  to  be  given  to  us  day  by 
day,  for  this  day,  for  the  coming  day,  for  the 
Last  Day,  that  it  may  raise  us,  as  Christ  hath 
promised,  unto  Everlasting  Life.'  Then  as  we 
acknowledge  God  as  the  Giver  of  all  good 
things,  we  ask  Him  in  this  petition  to  grant  us 
such  temporal  blessings  as  may  be  good  for  us, 
and  suit  our  several  stations,  capacities  and 
characters.  We  pray  for  sufficient  for  our  needs, 
as  He  knows  best,  not  for  such  things  as  may 
minister  to  worldliness  and  draw  us  away  from 
God.  And  with  the  prayer  is  implied  the 
petition  that  we  may  be  content  in  that  state  of 
life  unto  which  it  hath  pleased  GoD  to  call  us. 
— And  forgive  us  our  trespasses  as  we  forgive 
those  who  trespass  against  t/s.  These  trespasses 
are  both  the  Sins  of  Commission  and  the  Sins  of 
Omission.  By  the  recital  of  this  petition,  we 
confess  our  sins,  adding  as  a  condition  to  God's 
forgiveness  of  us,  our  pardon  of  others.  Only  in 
such  a  spirit,  can  we  presume  to  ask  GoD  to  re- 
mit our  sins.  This  petition  obligates  us  to  be 
in  love  and  charity  with  all  men,  ''for  if  ye  for- 
give not  men  their  trespasses^  neither  will  your 
Father  forgive  your  trespasses^  ^ — And  lead  us 
not  into  temptation.  GoD  does  not  tempt  man,^ 
He  simply  permits  us  to  be  tempted  by  the 
Devil  and  our  own  lusts  in  order  to  try  and  test 
us,  and  make  us  strong.  We  are  free  agents  but 
God  gives  us  His  Grace  that  we  may  choose 
aright.  We  pray  therefore,  not  that  we  may 
escape  temptation  but  rather  that  we  maybe  able 
to  withstand  it.  Nor  should  we  forget  that 
God  is  with  us.  He  leads  us,  in  the  Person 
of  Jesus  Christ,  Who  though  Tempted  like  as 

1  S.  John  vi.  54.     *  S.  Matthew  vi.  15.     ^  S,  James  i.  13- 


62  THE   CHURCH   CATECHISM 

we  are,  was  yet  without  sin. — But  deliver  tis  frojii 
evil.  We  pray  for  deliverance  not  only  from 
the  evil  within  us,  in  our  lusts  and  passions,  and 
from  the  evil  without  us,  in  the  allurements  of 
the  world,  but  also  from  the  Evil  One,  from 
vSatan  who  seeks  our  souls.  The  Devil  cannot 
make  us  sin.  He  can  only  tempt.  All  there- 
fore should  remember  the  Presence,  Power  and 
Promise  of  GOD,  for,  "  God  is  faithful.  Who 
will  not  suffer  you  to  be  tempted  above  that  ye  are 
able ;  but  ivill  with  the  temptation  also  make 
a  7vay  of  escape  that  ye  may  be  able  to  bear  it.""  ^ — 
For  Thine  is  the  Kingdom  and  the  Pozver  and 
the  Glory,  forever  and  ever.  Amen.  Fitly  in 
S.  Matthew's  Gospel  the  Lord's  Prayer  ends  as 
it  began  with  a  confession  of  faith  and  an  act  of 
adoration.  Again  we  soar  in  spirit  far  up  to 
the  Highest  Heavens,  to  the  Everlasting  King- 
dom of  the  Father,  where  He  reigns  with  the 
Son  and  the  Holy  Ghost  in  all  His  Power  and 
Glory.  Let  all  cherish  the  hope  that  by  holy 
living  they  may  on  the  Judgment  Day  win  our 
Lord's  Benediction  :  "  Come  ye  Blessed  of  My 
Father,  inherit  the  Kingdom  prepared  for  you.'''' 

V 

THE  SACRAMENTS 

The  Sacramental  System  is  by  Divine  Appoint- 
ment and  is  God's  Means  of  conveying  Grace. 
As  defined  in  the  Catechism,  a  Sacrament  is  "  an 
outward  and  visible  sign  of  an  inward  and  spirit- 
ual grace."  A  better  name  than  Sacrament, 
however,  is  that  of  Holy  Mystery,  a  title  used 
in  the  Eastern  Church  and  occurring  in  our 
^  I  Cor.  X.  13. 


TH12   SACRAMENTS  63 

Communion  Office.  This  indicates  that  these 
sacred  ordinances  are  above  our  power  to  com- 
prehend. The  number  of  the  Sacraments  is 
generally  accounted  to  be  Seven.  Two  of  these, 
Holy  Baptism  and  Holy  Communion,  are  called 
the  Sacraments  of  the  Gospel  or  the  Greater 
Sacraments,  for  when  possible  to  be  had,  they  ap- 
ply to  all  people,  being  generally  or  universally 
necessary  to  salvation.'  The  other  five,  those  of 
Holy  Order,  Confirmation,  Holy  Matrimony, 
Penance  and  Unction  of  the  Sick,  are  known  as 
Lesser  vSacraments,  because  they  generally  apply 
to  a  less  number  of  people.  All  seven  are  found 
in  Holy  Scripture  and  fulfil  the  requirements  of 
a  Sacrament  or  Holy  Mystery.  Only  those  of 
Baptism,  Confirmation  and  Holy  Communion 
need  be  treated  of  here. 

Holy  Baptism 

This  Sacred  Rite  has  already  been  touched 
upon  in  the  section  entitled  "The  Christian 
Covenant."  As  there  explained,  Baptism  grants 
the  recipient  Remission  of  Sins.  Regeneration 
and  Grace.  The  Church  in  accordance  with  our 
Lord's  words  teaches  that  Baptism  is  generally 
necessary  to  Salvation.'''  In  pursuance  of  primi- 
tive practice  the  Church  urges  Infant  Baptism. 

^  S.  John  iii.  5.  vi.  53. 

2  It  is  sometimes  asked  if  young  children  and  others 
who  die  unbaptized  are  lost.  While  it  is  never  safe  to  spec- 
ulate on  what  has  not  been  revealed,  it  may  be  said  that 
several  opinions  have  been  reverently  advanced,  one 
theory  being  that  young  children  who  die  unbaptized 
throvigh  no  fault  of  their  own,  are  Christened  by  their 
guardian  Angels,  of  whose  ministrations  Scripture  says  so 
much,  and  that  aduhs  trulj^  repentant,  while  not  seeing 
God,  are  in  a  place  of  rest  and  happiness.  This  is  only 
conjecture.    There  is  no  opinion  de  Jide. 


64  THE   CHURCH   CATECHISM 

A  Priest  should  administer  the  Rite,  but  in  case 
of  grave  emergency,  a  layman  or  even  a  woman 
may  baptize,  and  the  regular  service  be  dispensed 
with,  it  being  sufficient  to  valid  Baptism  if  water 
is  poured  on  with  devout  intention  at  the  recital 
of  the  necessary  words  "A^.  I  baptize  thee  in  the 
Name  of  the  Father  and  of  the  Son  and  of  the 
Holy  Ghost.  Amen."  In  adults,  a  prepara- 
tion of  prayer  and  fasting^  is  required,  for  re- 
ceiving the  Rite.  Care  should  also  be  taken  that 
the  Sponsors  be  proper  persons  to  stand,  and  that 
they  are  made  to  realize  their  responsibility  and 
fulfil  their  promise  of  bringing  the  Baptized 
to  the  Bishop  when  of  sufficient  age  for  Confirma- 
tion. Baptism  was  formerly  administered  with 
great  pomp  and  ceremony.  The  candidates  came 
dressed  in  white,  and  many  curious  customs  were 
followed.  It  should  be  the  aim  of  the  Clergy  to 
do  all  in  their  power  to  exalt  and  honour  this 
great  Sacrament  and  impress  its  solemnity  upon 
the  people.  The  Priest  generally  uses  a  purple 
stole,  signifying  Penitence,  changing  it  for  the 
white  stole  after  the  Creed,  this  symbolizing  the 
joy  that  should  be  felt  at  the  solemn  act  of 
Baptism  which  immediately  follows,  which  en- 
grafts the  recipient  into  the  body  of  the  Christian 
Church,  cleanses  from  original  and  ante-Bap- 
tismal sin  and  grants  Regeneration  and  Grace. 

■  Confi7'tnation 

The  Sacrament  of  the  "  Laying-on  of  Hands" 
is  that  Holy  Ordinance,  instituted  by  the  Apos- 
tles, under  the  direction  of  our  Lord,  which  con- 
fers upon  the  baptized    the  special  gift  of   the 

^  See  Rubric  in  Baptismal  Office  for  Adults. 


The  sacraments  65 

Holy  Ghost.  It  has  also  been  called  "the 
Seal,"  or  "  the  Anointing"  from  the  custom  of  the 
Early  Christians,  still  continued  in  some  parts  of 
the  Church,  and  much  to  be  desired  in  our 
Communion,  of  anointing  the  Candidate  with 
holy  Oil.  Confirmation  conveys  the  character 
of  a  Soldier  of  Christ  and  gives  the  sevenfold 
gift  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  the  spirit  of  wisdom 
and  understanding,  the  spirit  of  counsel  and 
ghostly  strength,  the  spirit  of  knowledge  and 
true  godliness  and  the  spirit  of  holy  fear.  Con- 
firmation thus  arouses  a  love  of  God,  a  hatred 
of  sin  and  a  desire  for  holiness,  and  by  afford- 
ing the  privilege  of  receiving  the  Holy  Com- 
munion strengthens  the  recipient  for  his  battle 
with  the  trials  and  troubles  of  life.  Confirma- 
tion does  not  make  the  recipient  a  member  of 
Church.  Baptism  does  that.  Nor  does  Con- 
firmation add  to  personal  responsibility,  because 
one  who  has  been  baptized,  is  bound  to  do  his 
utmost  to  keep  God's  Commandments  and  to  walk 
in  His  Ways.  On  the  receiver's  part  Confirma- 
tion but  ratifies  and  confirms  the  promises  made 
in  Baptism.  Though  in  Ancient  times  admin- 
istered with  Baptism,  in  the  Anglican  Church, 
Confirmation  is  conferred,  in  the  case  of  a  child 
on  reaching  twelve  years  of  age,  (though  some 
early  canons  place  the  age  at  seven)  and  in  the 
case  of  an  adult,  as  soon  as  possible  after  Bap- 
tism. 

The  Holy  Communion 

A  Sacrament.  The  Holy  Communion  is 
the  greatest  act  of  Christian  Worship  and  the 
most  precious  privilege  of  the  Christian  Soul. 
It  is  the  Solemn  Oblation  and  Memorial  of  the 
Church,  the  pleading  of  our  Lord's  Passion  and 
5 


66  THE  CHURCH   CATECHISM 

Death,  and  the  partaking  of  His  Blessed  Body 
and  Blood.  The  Anglican  Communion,  in  com- 
mon with  all  branches  of  the  Catholic  Church  in 
present  or  primitive  times,  holds  the  Scriptural 
doctrine  of  the  Real  Presence  of  Christ  in  the 
Sacrament,  but  does  not  define  the  mode  of  the 
Presence,  further  than  to  believe  that  our  Lord 
is  there  after  a  Spiritual,  Sacramental  manner. 
This  is  in  accord  with  our  Lord's  teaching  con- 
cerning this  Mystery.  For  in  setting  forth  this 
doctrine  to  His  Disciples  and  the  Jews,^  when 
met  by  objections.  He  re-asserted  His  teaching 
in  still  stronger  words,  but  never  fully  explained 
it,  leaving  it  a  Mystery.^  He  showed  that  He 
was  the  Reality  of  which  the  Manna,  the  Pass- 
over and  the  like  were  but  types  and  shadows. 
He  taught  that  He  was  the  True  Bread,  the 
Living  Bread,  the  Bread  from  Heaven,  the  Bread 
which  was  His  Flesh.  When  His  hearers  mur- 
mured, saying  that  this  was  "aw  hard  saying'' 
and  asking  how  it  could  be,  He  repeated  His 
doctrine,  without  detracting  from  it,  saying  : 
"  Verily,  verily  I  say  tinto  you,  except  ye  eat  the 
Flesh  of  the  Son  of  Man  and  drink  His  Blood, 
ye  have  no  life  in  you.  Whoso  eateth  my  Flesh 
and  drinketh  My  Blood  hath  eternal  life  and  I 
zvill  raise  him  up  at  the  last  day.  For  My  Flesh 
is  meat  indeed  and  My  Blood  is  drink  indeed. 
He  that  eateth  My  Flesh  and  drinketh  My 
Blood  dwelleth  in  Me  and  I  in  him.''''- 

Having  thus  instructed  His  Disciples  on  this 
Mystery,  in  the  fullness  of  time,  in  the  night  in 
which  He  was  Betrayed,  He  Instituted  the 
Sacrament  of  His  Body  and  Blood. ^     As  our 

^  S.  John  vi.  35-71.  ^  S.  John  vi.  53-56. 

^  S.  Matthew  xxvi.  26-29 ;  S.  Mark  xiv.  22-25  ;  S. 
Luke  xxii.  19-21  ;  i  Cor.  xi.  23-34. 


THE  SACRAMENTS  67 

Lord,  then  in  Visible  Presence,  taking  Bread 
and  Wine,  Blessed  them  and  gave  them  to  His 
Disciples,  saying  :  "  This  is  My  Body,"  "  This 
is  My  Blood,"  so  through  His  Sacred  Priest- 
hood, He  now  continues  to  do,  His  Words  of 
Institution,  which  are  always  repeated,  and  the 
Descent  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  making  the  earthly 
elements  of  Bread  and  Wine  His  Blessed  Body 
and  Blood.  How  this  can  be  we  neither  can 
nor  dare  explain  nor  should  we  argue  regarding 
it.  Christ  is  from  above,  we  from  below.  He 
is  Infinite,  we  but  finite.  He  is  God  and  Man, 
we  but  men.  That  which  our  Lord  left  a 
Mystery  we  should  regard  as  such,  accepting 
and  believing  the  Words  of  our  Saviour.  All 
that  we  need  know  is  that  after  Consecration 
Christ's  Body  and  Blood  are  there,  yet  not 
carnally,  corporally,  or  locally  Present,  after  a 
«fl/«rrt/ manner,  but  mystically,  spiritually,  and 
sacranientally  Present  after  a  supernatural  man- 
ner. In  His  mercy  He  comes  to  us  veiled  be- 
neath the  forms  of  Bread  and  Wine  and  gives 
us  His  Glorified  Body  and  Blood.  We  receive 
Him,  the  Living  Bread,  the  Lord  of  Glory,  and 
receiving  Him,  we  receive  all  that  He  is,  God 
and  Man.  He  dwells  in  us,  and  we  in  Him, 
Christ  in  us  "  the  hope  of  glory.'"  '  He  is  our 
Lord  and  our  God,  our  Life  and  our  Light, 
our  Strength  and  our  Joy.  He  vouchsafes  to 
have  union  with  us  and  by  this  union  '^  grants  to 
us  a  foretaste  of  heaven  and  promises  to  raise 
us  up  at  the  last  day.  Let  us  "  be  not  faithless 
but  beleiving'"  ^  so  that,  when  Jesus  comes  to  us 
in  the  Holy  Communion,  we  may  know  Him 
''in    the   Breaking   of    Bread,'''  ^  and   like    S. 

*  Colossians  i.  27.  '  S.  John  xx.  27. 

2  S.  John  vi.  54.  *  S.  Luke  xxiv.  35. 


68  THE   CHURCH    CATECHISM 

Thomas  welcome  Ilim  with  loving  words  "  My 
Lord  and  my  GoD.'^  ^ 

A  Sacrifice.  The  Holy  Communion  is 
not  only  a  Sacrament.  It  is  also  a  Sacrifice, 
or  Oblation,  whose  value  and  efficacy  come 
from  the  One  Absolute  Sacrifice  of  the  Cross, 
on  which  our  Lord  Offered  Himself  and  Re- 
deemed the  World.  The  Oblation  of  the  Holy 
Eucharist  shows  forth  and  pleads  this  Sacrifice 
of  Christ  on  Calvary,  "  the  One  Oblation  of 
Himself  once  offered,"^  for  as  S,  Paul  says 
' '  as  often  as  ye  do  eat  this  Bread  and  drink 
this  cup,  ye  do  shozu  the  Lord's  Death  till  LLe 
come.'"  ^ 

In  the  Celebration  of  the  Holy  Communion, 
there  is  therefore  : 

I, — The  Solemn  Memorial  and  Re-present- 
ation of  our  Lord's  Blessed  Passion  and 
Precious  Death,  His  Mighty  Resurrection  and 
Glorious  Ascension  ;  the  Offering  or  pleading  of 
that  one,  full,  perfect  and  sufficient  Sacrifice, 
Oblation  and  Satisfaction  for  the  sins  of  the 
whole  world,  made  by  Christ  on  the  Cross  ; 

H. — The  Sacrifice  of  Praise  and  Thanks- 
giving for  the  innumerable  Benefits  procured 
unto  us  by  the  same  ; 

in. — The  Sacrifice  of  Prayer  and  Intercession 
for  all  Estates  in  the  Catholic  Church,  both  the 
Living  and  the  Dead. 

IV. — The  Offering  and  Presentation  of  our- 
selves, our  souls  and  bodies  to  be  a  reasonable 
holy  and  living  sacrifice  unto  GoD  ; 

^  S.  John  XX.  28.  '  Communion  Office  in  P.  B. 

*  I  Cor.  xi.  26, 


the;  sacraments  69 

V. — The  Oblations  of  Bread  and  Wine. 

In  Heaven,  at  the  Right  Hand  of  the  Father, 
Christ  ever  liveth  to  make  intercession  for 
us,'  pleading  the  Sacrifice  of  the  Cross,  while 
on  earth,  through  His  Sacred  Priesthood,  the 
solemn  Oblation  or  Memorial  of  this  One  Sacri- 
fice, is  offered  at  the  Altar,  where  though  His 
earthly  representative  is  the  Minister,  it  is 
Christ  Himself  Who  both  Consecrates  and 
Offers,  Who  is  both  Priest  and  Victim. 

The  Benefits.  Th©  prayers  of  the  faithful 
are  offered  and  accepted  because  of  the  Merits 
and  Mediation  of  Christ,  and  those  who  receive 
the  Sacrament  of  His  Body  and  Blood  appro- 
priate to  themselves  the  Benefits  won  by  His 
Death  and  Passion. 

The  Benefits  are  well  expressed  in  the  Exhor- 
tation, where  the  Communion  is  spoken  of  as 
"the  Most  Comfortable  Sacrament  of  the  Body 
and  Blood  of  Christ  to  be  by  them  received  in 
remembrance  of  His  Meritorious  Cross  and  Pas- 
sion ;  whereby  alone  we  obtain  remission  of  our 
sins  and  are  made  partakers  of  the  Kingdom  of 
Heaven,"  to  which  may  be  added  the  Words  of 
the  Catechism  that  the  Benefits  are  "  the 
strengthening  and  refreshing  of  our  Souls  by  the 
Body  and  Blood  of  Christ  as  are  our  bodies  by 
the  Bread  and  Wine."  Our  Lord  is  Life  and 
we  receive  all  that  pertains  to  life  in  Christ. 
There  is  the  forgiveness  of  sins,^  the  strength- 
ening of  the  spirit,  the  illumination  of  mind, 
the  enkindlement  of  devotion,  the  purification 
of  desire,  the  increase  of  love,  the  replenishing 
of  grace,  the  promise  of  everlasting  life.    There 

*  Hebrews  vii.  25.  -Words  of  Institution. 


70  The  church  catechism 

is  also  union  with  our  Lord  and  through  Him 
with  God  the  Father  and  God  the  Holy 
Ghost — a  life  "  hid  with  Christ  in  God.''  ^  If 
we  seek  our  Lord  with  love,  longing  and  de- 
votion, faith  and  penitence,  each  Communion 
will  be  as  the  fire  warming  and  brightening  the 
soul,  giving  us  strength  to  withstand  trial  and 
temptation,  to  bear  sorrow  and  suffering,  to  ap- 
preciate joy  and  gladness.  By  Communion  we 
grow  unto  "a;  perfect  man^  unto  the  77ieasure 
of  the  stature  of  the  fulness  of  Christ,'"  ^  the 
Image  of  God  in  our  souls  gradually  regaining 
its  purity  in  Jesljs,  until  at  the  Last  Day,  "  7ahe}i 
Christ  Who  is  our  Life  shall  appear,  then  shall 
ye  also  appear  zuith  Him  in  Glory. ''^ 

It  remains  but  to  add  a  few  words  as  to  who 
should  receive  the  Holy  Communion.  It  is  not 
a  privilege  only  for  the  few,  for  those  whose  lives 
are  exceptionally  holy.  It  is  for  all  who  desire  to 
be  better  and  who  7vill  to  co-operate  with  God's 
Grace,  who  come  in  faith,  love,  and  repentance. 
'■^  I ^  if  I  be  lifted  7(p  from  the  earth  will  draw  all 
men  tinto  me.'"^  Our  Lord  calls  all  to  come  to 
the  Offering  up  of  the  Holy  Communion,  the 
Memorial  of  that  "  Lifting  up  upon  the  Cross." 
He  comes  to  save  sinners.  He  bids  all  those  who 
"  travail  and  are  heavy  laden"  ^  with  their  sins  to 
lay  them  at  His  Feet.  He  says,  "  though  your 
sins  be  as  scarlet  they  shall  be  as  white  as  snow.'"  ^ 
The  Blessed  Sacrament  is  for  all  who  "truly 
and  earnestly  repent,"  who  "are  in  love  and 
charity  with  their  neighbours,  who  intend  to  lead 
a  new  life  following  the  Commandments  of  God 
and   walking    from    henceforth    in    His    Holy 

^  Colossians  iii.  3.  *  S.  John  xii.  32. 

*  Ephesians  iv.  13.  ^  S.  Matthew  xi.  28. 

^Colossians  iii.  4.  ^  Isaiah  i.  18. 


'*  BEHOLD    I    STAND    AT    THE    DOOR 
AND    KNOCK." 


THE  SACRAMENTS  71 

Ways."  No  one  is  tvorthy,  for  all  have  sin,  but 
one  may  receive  niort/iily,  if  he  sorrows  for  his 
sins  and  wishes  to  amend.  Instead  of  doing 
wrong  in  receiving,  the  penitent  sins  by  staying 
away,  for  it  deprives  him  of  the  chief  means  of 
grace  and  shows  doubts  of  God's  Love  and  For- 
giveness. No  excuses  will  avail  before  God, 
and  in  His  Word  we  are  told  of  the  grievous 
punishment  on  those  who  stayed  away  when  bid- 
den to  the  Supper  of  the  King,  God  calls  all. 
Let  none  stay  away,  but  come  in  faith,  love 
and  penitence,  longing  for  the  Holy  Com- 
munion as  the  greatest  spiritual  blessing.  Let 
them  approach,  saying  in  their  hearts,  "  We  do 
not  presume  to  come  to  this  Thy  Table,  O 
Merciful  Lord,  trusting  in  our  own  righteous- 
ness but  in  Thy  manifold  and  great  mercies."  ' 
Then  our  Lord  will  say  ''''go  i?i peace'"  ^  as  He 
gives  the  Holy  Mysteries  of  His  Blessed  Body 
and  Blood.  "  Whoso  eateth  My  Flesh  and 
drinketh  My  Blood  hath  Eternal  Life  and  I 
will  raise  hif?i  up  at  the  last  day^ 

1  Prayer  of  Humble  Access,  P.  B. 
^  S.  John  vi.  54. 


PENITENCE 


SIN 

TO  make  real  progress  in  the  spiritual  life  and 
to  feel  sincere  sorrow  for  wrong-doing  re- 
quires not  only  the  understanding  of  the 
nature  and  consequences  of  sin  but  also  the 
knowledge  of  self  and  of  the  successive  steps  in 
repentance.  The  Moral  Law  of  God  was  given 
to  man  from  the  moment  of  creation,  conscience 
enabling  the  possessor  to  distinguish  between 
right  and  wrong,  good  and  evil.  This  Moral 
Law  was  explicitly  set  forth  in  the  Ten  Com- 
mandments, and  still  more  clearly  revealed  in 
the  Life  and  Teaching  of  our  Lord.  Sin  is  the 
transgression  of  this  Law,  the  direct  disobedi- 
ence of  Almighty  God,  the  missing  the  mark 
of  righteousness.  When  unrepented  of,  or  per- 
sisted in,  its  punishment  is  the  loss  of  our  immor- 
tal souls,  for  "  the  tvages  of  sin  is  death.'''' '  To 
Sin  is  due  all  the  evil  that  is  in  the  world.  Sin 
caused  the  fall  of  the  Angels,  the  disobedience 
of  Adam  and  Eve,  and  their  expulsion  from  the 
Garden  of  Eden.  It  brought  into  the  world 
trial  and  trouble,  sorrow  and  suffering,  plague, 
pestilence  and  famine,  war,  pillage  and  death. 

^  Romans  vi.  23. 

72 


SIN  73 

Above  all,  it  caused  the  Passion  of  Jesus  Christ, 
and  Crucified  the  Lord  of  Glory.  The 
tempter  to  all  sin  is  the  Devil.  Consequently 
the  awfulness  of  sin  cannot  be  exaggerated,  and 
the  higher  the  plane  of  the  spiritual  life,  the  more 
it  will  be  felt  and  appreciated.  It  is,  however, 
most  fully  realized  when  contrasted  with  the 
Infinite  Love  of  God,  Who  though  hating  sin 
does  everything  to  save  the  sinner,  except  to 
force  his  will,  by  giving  man  His  Grace  and 
speaking  through  conscience. 

To  help  us  more  clearly  understand  the  nature 
of  sin,  the  Church  has  distinguished  the  different 
kinds  and  degrees  of  sin.  Pride  is  the  Root  of  all 
sin.  From  it  springs  all  kinds  of  Vain-Glory, 
Anger,  Covetousness,  Envy,  Gluttony,  Lust  and 
Sloth,  which  being  the  fountain  heads  of  all 
wrong-doing  are  called  Capital  Sins.  They  be- 
come Deadly  Sins  when  the  offence  is  a  grave 
one,  results  in  much  injury  to  oneself  or  others 
and  is  done  nnllingly,  knowingly  and  deliberately. 
They  may  be  Venial  Sins ^  however,  when  not  so 
done,  and  their  nature  is  not  grave.  While  one 
who  breaks  one  commandment  "  z\y  guilty  of 
alV'^  in  the  sense  of  breaking  the  Law  as  a 
whole,  he  is  not  punished  for  sins  he  did  not 
commit,  or  for  all  sins  alike.  In  Venial  Sin,  man 
is  still  in  a  state  of  Grace,  but  in  Deadly  Sin  he 
is  separated  from  GOD,  and  deprived  of  Grace, 
when  the  conscience  is  deadened,  and  good 
works  of  the  past  or  present  are  no  longer  ac- 
cepted by  God.  As  an  arm  severed  from  the 
body  dies  a  ])hysical  death,  so  the  soul  separated 
from  God  dies  a  spiritual  death.  The  union  is 
only  restored  in  penitence. 

Sins  are  also  known  as  Actual  Sins,  when  acts 

^  S.  James  ii.  lo. 


74  PENITENCE 

of  sin  are  committed,  and  Habitual  Sins,  when 
these  sins  become  a  habit.  They  are  Material 
Sins  when  ignorantly  or  unwillingly  committed, 
but  FortJial  Sins  when  deliberately  committed, 
with  knowledge  of  their  gravity.  Sins  are  also 
classed  as  Sins  of  Cotnmission,  when  evil  is  done, 
and  Sins  of  Omission  when  good  is  left  undone. 
All  sin  is  against  GoD,  and  may  be  of  Thought, 
Word  or  Deed.  For  clearness,  however,  sin  is 
sometimes  distinguished  as  (i)  against  God,  \vhen 
it  is  lack  of  love,  faith  or  repentance,  or  disre- 
gard of  the  teaching  of  the  Church  ;  (2)  against 
our  Neighbo2ir  when  it  breaks  the  Law  of 
Christian  Charity  ;  (3)  against  Ourselves,  when 
it  imperils  our  future  welfare,  or  hurts  our  spir- 
itual life.  As  all  sin  may  become  Deadly  Sin 
when  persisted  in,  the  beginnings  of  sin  should 
specially  be  guarded  against,  remembering  how- 
ever, that  Temptation  is  not  necessarily  sin. 
The  successive  steps  in  sin  are  generally  :  (i) 
Suggestion,  when  the  sin  is  presented  to  the 
mind  ;  (2)  Pleasure,  when  it  is  entertained  with 
satisfaction  ;  (3)  Consent,  when  the  will  is  won  ; 
(4)  Act,  when  the  sin  is  committed  ;  (5)  Habit, 
when  it  is  repeated  continually ;  (6)  Slavery, 
when  the  power  to  resist  is  almost  gone  ;  (7) 
Death,  when  the  Divine  Light  of  the  soul  is  dark- 
ened, conscience  no  longer  acts,  the  spiritual 
life  is  dead,  the  Image  of  God  is  almost  obliter- 
ated, and  unrepentant  and  un forgiven,  man  goes 
on  in  his  evil  ways  until  summoned  before  the 
Judgment  Throne  of  God  to  receive  the  just 
reward  of  sin.  To  guard  against  such  a  fatal 
possibility,  God  has  provided  His  means  of 
Grace  :  the  practice  of  penitence  and  the  recep- 
tion of  the  Sacraments,  whereby  we  gain  the 
needed  strength  for  the  spiritual  life. 


CONTRITION  75 

II 

CONTRITION 

S.  Chrysostom  has  said  :  "  Three  things  are 
necessary  to  Penitence  :  in  the  heart,  Contrition; 
in  the  mouth,  Confession  ;  in  the  life.  Amend- 
ment." This  of  necessity  implies  Self-Examin- 
ation  and  Absolution. 

Contrition  is  the  Love  of  GOD  and  that  sor- 
row which  grieves  at  having  sinned  against  His 
Love.  Contrition  wins  God's  Forgiveness,  ''''for 
godly  sorroiv  worketh  repentance  unto  salva- 
tion.'''' '  Sorrow  which  comes  from  the  fear  of 
punishment  is  Attrition  and  is  not  in  itself  godly 
sorrow.  Contrition  is  aroused  by  looking  at  the 
Cross,  which  Spectacle  of  Sorrow  and  Suffering 
was  ordered  in  the  Providence  of  God,  that  the 
Sacred  Wounds  of  Jesus  might  excite  our  love 
and  repentance.  In  the  Cross  we  learn  that 
"  God  is  Love  "  '■'  and  find  the  true  motive  of 
conversion  and  penitence.  Contrition  leads  to 
self-knowledge,  making  us  admit  the  truth  and 
see  our  sin,  for  ' '  if  7oe  say  that  %(je  have  no  sin  we 
deceive  ourselves  and  the  truth  is  tiot  in  usy  ^ 
This  realization  of  sin  incites  us  to  ascertain 
more  particularly  regarding  our  spiritual  life  by 
an  examination  of  conscience. 

Self=Examination.  God  has  commanded 
this,  for  He  has  said  :  "  Consider  your  luays,''''  ^ 
'''Let  a  man  exatnine himself "  ^.  This  examina- 
tion and  self-accusation  shows  the  sins  to  be  con- 
quered and  the  virtues  to  be  cultivated,  and  is  a 

^  2  Cor.  vii.  19.      '  I  S.  John  iv.  16.      ^  i  S.  John  i.  8. 
*  Haggai  i.  5.  ^  i  Cor.  xi.  28. 


76  pe;nitence; 

means  to  salvation,  ^^  for  if  ive  tvould judge  our- 
selves we  should  not  be  judged. ""  '  Self-examin- 
ation should  regularly  be  made  :  (i)  briefly  each 
night;  (2)  more  carefully  before  each  Communion; 
(3)  3.t  greater  length  before  such  occasions  as 
Confirmation,  First  Communion,  Marriage,  Holy 
Orders,  and  the  Chief  Festivals  and  Fasts 
of  the  Church,  such  as  Christmas,  Easter,  Whit- 
sunday, Advent  and  Lent.  This  examination  is 
called  General  when  it  briefly  covers  all  of  one's 
life  and  Special  when  it  only  extends  over  the 
period  elapsing  since  the  last  examination.  Self- 
examination  should  be  made  in  the  realization 
of  the  Presence  of  God,  saying  "  TJiou  God  seest 
??ie"^  remembering  the  words  of  Psalm  cxxxix. 
The  special  aim  should  be  to  see  if  the  sins  were 
done  willingly,  knowingly  and  deliberately,  and 
%vhe7i,  where  and  how  often.  Nor  should  it  be 
forgotten  that  this  will  require  mental  exertion, 
for  self-examination  and  prayer,  like  all  things 
worth  doing,  involve  hard  work.  The  examin- 
ation should  be  made  humbly,  lovingly,  peni- 
tently and  cheerfully,  with  a  full  trust  in  God's 
Mercy  and  Forgiveness. 


Ill 

CONFESSION  AND  ABSOLUTION 

Confession.  The  desire  to  confess  one's 
faults  is  the  fruit  of  God's  Grace  and  the  result 
of  the  realization  of  the  awfulness  of  sin.  It  may 
safely  be  assumed  that  without  the  wish  to  accuse 
oneself  there  is  no  real  repentance.     Ordinarily 

*  I  Cor.  xi.  31.  '  Genesis  xvi.  13. 


CONFESSION   AND   ABSOI.UTION  77 

it  is  a  condition  of  God's  Forgiveness,  ''  If  we 
confess  our  sins,  He  is  faithful  and  just  to 
forgive  us  our  sins  and  to  cleanse  us  frotn  all  un- 
righteousness." ^  In  the  Order  of  Holy  Com- 
munion, as  appointed  by  the  Book  of  Common 
Prayer,  the  Church  has  set  forth  three  modes  of 
Confession  :  {a)  that  of  confessing  in  the  words 
of  the  General  Confession  '^  ;  {b)  that  of  confess- 
ing oneself  to  Almighty  God  ^  ;  [c)  that  of  con- 
fessing in  the  hearing  of  God's  Minister.'*  In 
thus  plainly  permitting  these  ways,  and  distinctly 
and  advisedly  leaving  it  to  the  individual  to  de- 
termine which  is  best  for  his  spiritual  good,  the 
Anglican  Church  at  the  same  time  rejects  such 
a  parody  on  penitence  as  is  shown  by  one  going 
to  the  Service  and  receiving  the  Holy  Com- 
munion without  preparation.' 

The  public  or  General  Confession,  by  its  very 
terms,  assumes  previous  self-examination  and 
accusation,  the  method  only  varying  in  that 
those  who  use  secret  Confession  accuse  them- 
selves to  God  in  private,  instead  of  to  God  in 
the  presence  of  a  Priest.  The  General  Confes- 
sion is  said  with  the  intention  of  the  Church 
that  its  general  terms  cover  the  sins  previously 
confessed  in  private  or  before  a  Priest ;  and  the 
Absolution  is  pronounced  with  the  intention  of 
the  Church  that  its  declaration  of  forgiveness  ap- 
plies to  each  individual   soul,  who  is  penitent.  ^ 

^  I  S.  John  i.  g. 

'  See  the  Office. 

^  Second  Exhortation  in  Office  of   Holy  Communion. 

■*  Exhortation  Communion  Office  and  Visitation  of 
Prisoners,  American  P.B.,  and  Visitation  of  Sick,  Church 
of  England  P.  B. 

^  Otherwise  the  use  of  Confession  and  Absolution  in 
the  Office  is  meaningless.  It  should  be  remembered  too 
that  the  Mode  of  Confession  has  varied  greatly  in  the 
different  ages  of  the  Church. 


78  PENITENCE 

111  all  cases  the  Confession  is  made  to  God,  and 
the  Absolution  comes  from  God,  the  Priests  be- 
ing the  Ambassadors  of  Christ  who,  publicly 
or  privately  speak  for  Christ  '  in  the  "  Ministry 
of  Reconciliation."  * 

Absolution.  The  Priests  thus  declare  God's 
Forgiveness,  by  virtue  of  the  power  committed 
unto  them  at  Ordination,  through  the  laying  on 
of  hands  by  the  Bishop  with  the  words  :  "  Re- 
ceive the  Holy  Ghost,  for  the  Office  and 
Work  of  a  Priest  in  the  Church  of  God,  now  com- 
mitted unto  thee  by  the  imposition  of  our  hands. 
Whose  sins  thou  dost  forgive  they  are  forgiven  : 
and  whose  sins  thou  dost  retain  they  are  re- 
tained. And  be  thou  a  faithful  Dispenser  of  the 
Word  of  God  and  of  his  Holy  Sacraments  :  In 
the  Name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son  and 
of  the  Holy  Ghost.  Amen."^  Thus  the  com- 
mission given  to  the  Apostles  by  our  LORD,^ 
through  the  Apostolic  Succession  is  preserved 
and  given  to  each  of  Christ's  Representatives  in 
the  Priesthood.  In  every  case  the  Forgiveness 
of  Sins  is  dependent  upon  the  repentance  of  the 
sinner,  whose  Confession  must  be  full,  sincere 
and  humble.  Absolution  spiritually  applies  to 
the  soul  the  Precious  Blood  of  Jesus  Christ, 
and  God  lifts  the  burden  of  sin,  for  '''the  Blood 
of  yEsus  Christ  His  Son  cleanseth  us  frotn  all 
sinr^ 

In  conclusion,  the  position  of  this  branch  of 
the  Church  on  Confession  may  best  be  stated  in 
the  Exhortation  to  be  found  in  the  First  Prayer 
Book  of  King  Edward  VI,  "...  requiring 
such  as  shall  be  satisfied  with  a  general  confession 

*  2  Cor.  V.  18-20.  ^  S.  John  xx.  21-23. 

'»  The  Ordering  of  Priests.        *  i  St.  John  i.  7. 


AMENDMENT  79 

not  to  be  offended  with  them  that  do  use  to  their 
further  satisfying  the  auricular  and  secret  con- 
fession to  the  Priest  ;  nor  those  also  which  think 
needful  or  convenient  for  the  quietness  of  their 
own  consciences,  particularly  to  open  their  sins 
to  the  Priest:  to  be  offended  with  them  that  are 
satisfied  with  their  humble  Confession  to  God, 
and  the  general  Confession  to  the  Church.  But 
in  all  things  to  follow  and  keep  the  rule  of 
Charity  and  every  man  to  be  satisfied  with  his 
own  conscience,  not  judging  other  men's  minds 
or  consciences  ;  whereas  he  hath  no  warrant  of 
God's  Word  to  the  same."  If  this  very  helpful 
counsel  were  more  generally  kept  in  mind, 
God's  Glory  would  be  advanced,  and  the  law  of- 
Love  would  bear  more  abundant  fruit. 

IV 

AMENDMENT 

Satisfaction  or  Amendment.  This  con- 
sists of  acts  of  reparation,  to  show  sorrow  for 
sin,  to  confirm  repentance,  and  to  advance  God's 
Glory.  Our  Lord  made  full  Atonement  for  sin. 
Penance  shows  a  living  faith  in  that  Atonement 
and  is  Scriptural,  for  the  Word  of  God  tells  us 
to  '''bring  forth  therefore  fruits  worthy  of  re- 
pentance,^'''^ and  assures  us  that  '^  7i>ith  such 
sacrifices  God  is  zuell pleased."  '^  Satisfaction  or 
Penance  should  be  rational  and  its  effect  medi- 
cinal, helping,  purifying  and  stimulating  the 
spiritual  life.  It  need  not  be  hard,  and  whether 
suggested  by  the  Priest  or  self-imposed  should 
be  in  proportion  to  the  sin  and  to  one's  power  to 

^  S.  Luke  iii.  8.  *  Hebrews  xiii.  i6. 


8o  PENITENCE 

perform.  Satisfaction  or  Penance  may  be  of 
two  kinds :  (i)  Works  of  Devotion,  such  as 
Prayer,  Meditation,  Religious  Reading,  and 
more  frequent  attendance  at  Divine  Service,  and 
(2)  Works  of  Mortification,  such  as  Fasting, 
Abstinence,  giving  up  innocent  enjoyment  and 
doing  uncongenial  or  humiliating  things.  Resti- 
tution must  be  made  when  necessary,  it  being 
remembered  however,  that  Penance  must  never 
be  allowed  to  injure  the  health  or  hurt  one's 
influence  for  good. 

Penitential  Acts.  The  following  may  be 
helpful  as  suggestions  for  advancing  the  Spirit- 
ual life  and  overcoming  besetting  sins  : 

Lack  of  Faith,  such  as  unbelief,  misbelief, 
and  doubt  of  GOD  and  His  Revelation  may  be 
overcome  by  Prayer  or  recital  of  Creed,  reading 
the  Scriptures,  studying  the  reasons  of  belief,  and 
making  acts  of  faith,  such  as  saying, "  Lord,  I 
believe,  help  Thou  my  unbelief." 

Lack  of  Hope,  such  as  doubt  of  God's  Love, 
Power  and  Mercy,  of  one's  Salvation,  of  the 
preservation  of  the  Church,  or  of  answer  to 
prayer  may  be  conquered  by  reading  God's 
Promises,  reflecting  on  the  evidences  of  His 
Goodness,  of  the  sinners  who  became  saints, 
of  the  dangers  through  which  the  Church  has 
come  and  by  never  ceasing  to  struggle  against 
despair  and  despondency. 

Lack  of  Love,  such  as  dryness  in  devotion, 
and  careless  disregard  of  the  Commandments,  or 
the  Golden  Rule  of  Charity  may  find  its  remedy 
in  thinking  of  God's  Love,  of  the  Death  of 
Christ,  of  the  beauty  of  holiness,  of  the  punish- 
ment of  sin,  and  by  trying  to  win  souls  for  God. 


AMENDMENT  8l 

Pride  may  be  overcome  by  acts  of  humility, 
such  as  visiting  the  poor,  the  sick  and  the  un- 
congenial, reflecting  on  one's  own  shortcomings, 
cultivating  modesty,  giving  up  one's  own  will, 
meditating  on  the  equality  of  all  in  God's 
Sight,  and  thinking  of  the  Humility  of  Jesus, 
Who  '' pleased  not  Himself ''''^  but  '''  made  Him- 
self of  no  reputation y  ^ 

Anger  may  be  conquered  by  cultivating  pa- 
tience, forbearance  and  charity,  thinking  before 
speaking,  patiently  hearing  reproof,  reflecting 
on  the  awful  results  of  anger,  doing  good  for 
evil,  praying  for  one's  enemies  and  meditating  on 
the  Silence  of  Jesus, ^  Who  when  reviled,  reviled 
not  again. 

Covetousness  may  be  cured  by  self-sacrifice, 
self-denial  and  almsgiving,  voluntarily  giving  up 
harmless  luxuries  and  comforts,  reflecting  on  the 
uncertainty  of  riches  and  their  danger  of  leading 
us  away  from  God,  and  meditating  on  the  fall 
of  Judas  Iscariot  and  the  Poverty  of  Christ. 

Lust  may  be  overcome  by  fasting,  shunning 
the  occasions  and  the  source  of  sin,  cultivating 
shame,  reflecting  that  Impurity  gives  one  the 
mark  of  the  beast  "^  and  leads  to  hell,^  and  by 
meditating  on  the  Spotless  Purity  of  Christ  and 
His  Promise,  ''Blessed  are  the  pure  in  heart  for 
they  shall  see  God."'  ^ 

Sloth  may  be  conquered  by  useful  labour,  study 
and  reading,  arising  early,  saying  additional  de- 
votions and  voluntarily  incurring  fatigue. 

^  Romans  xv.  3. 
'  Philippians  ii.  7. 

^  S.  Matthew  xxvi.  63  ;  S.  Luke  xxiii.9. 
*  Rev.  xix.  20. 

«  Rev.  xxii,  •  S.  Matthew  v.  8. 

6 


82  PENITENCE 

Gluttony  may  be  cured  by  fasting,  abstinence 
and  self-denial,  eating  plain  fare,  dressing  and 
living  simply,  and  refraining  from  unnecessary 
rest,  food  or  pleasure. 

Envy  may  be  driven  away  by  love,  kindness 
and  generosity,  especially  to  those  once  envied,  by 
helping  others  to  attain  their  proper  desires,  and 
by  cultivating  the  spirit  of  contentment. 

Love  of  the  World  may  be  overcome  by  the 
thought  of  death  and  judgment,  heaven  and 
hell. 

Love  of  Pleasure  may  be  cured  by  meditation 
on  personal  responsibility  in  the  Sight  of  God 
and  thinking  of  the  sorrow  and  suffering  about 
us. 

Wandering  Prayer  may  be  conquered  by 
recollection  of  God's  Presence,  repetition  of 
prayers,  and  signing  the  Cross. 

These  suggestions  may  be  extended  at  length 
but  those  made  may  be  sufficient  to  show  the 
benefit  of  penitential  acts,  especially  of  Prayer, 
Fasting  and  Almsgiving,  when  understandingly, 
devotionally  and  reverently  performed.  And 
above  all,  it  should  be  remembered,  that  looking 
on  the  Cross  and  meditating  on  the  Passion  and 
Death  of  Christ  are  the  greatest  incentives  to 
holiness  and  the  best  means  of  overcoming 
temptation. 


part  1111 

preparation, 

praters  auD  Bevotions 

tor 

1bol\?  Communion 


83 


SUGGESTIONS  FOR  SELF- 
EXAMINATION 


SINCE  people  communicate  more  or  less  frequently 
and  differ  greatly  both  spiritually  and  intellectually, 
several  Forms  of  self-examination  are  here  set  forth, 
to  be  used  as  found  most  helpful.      It  is  well  to  heed 
the  following  suggestions : 

I.  Remember  the  Presence  of  God, 
II.  Choose  the  stillness  and  privacy  of  the  Church  or 
your  room  for  self-examination. 
III.  Avoid  all  formality  or  doing  things  mechanically 
by  making  the  devotions  your  own  and  also  by 
adding  original  prayers. 
IV.  Do   not  become   despondent,    depressed,    or   mor- 
bid, but  remember  that  God  is  ever  ready  to 
forgive. 
V.  Seek  out  besetting  sins  and  aim  specially  to  con- 
quer them. 
VI.  Impose  penances  which  are  remedial  or  corrective. 
VII.  Be  loving,  sincere,  earnest  and  humble,  and  try  to 
see  if  sins  were  done  willingly,  knowingly,  and 
deliberately. 
VIII.  See   God's    Minister,    if   necessary,    for    spiritual 
guidance  and  help. 
IX.  Remember  that  a  few  prayers  well  said  are   far 
better  than  long  devotions  made  mechanically. 


84 


PREPARATION  FOR  HOLY 
COMMUNION. 


THE  following  Prayers  and  Devotions  in 
preparation  for  Holy  Communion  may  be 
used  on  the  evening  before  receiving,  or 
in  the  case  of  a  Sunday  Communion  may  be 
separated,  so  that  part  may  be  said  on  Friday, 
part  on  Saturday.  The  devotions  may  be 
shortened,  if  deemed  advisable,  by  following  the 
suggestions  placed  in  brackets,  or  omitting  the 
prayers  that  follow  them, 

BEFORE  SELF  EXAMINATION 

IN  the  Name  "i*  of   the  Father  and  of  the 
Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.    Amen. 

Veiti  Creator. 

Come  Holy  Ghost,  our  souls  inspire 
And  lighten  with  celestial  fire. 

Thou  the  Anointing  Spirit  art. 

Who  dost  Thy  Sevenfold  gifts  impart. 

Thy  Blessed  Unction  from  above 
Is  comfort,  life  and  fire  of  love. 

85 


86     PREPARATION  FOR  HOI,Y   COMMUNION 

Enable  with  perpetual  light, 
The  dullness  of  our  blinded  sight. 

Anoint  and  cheer  our  soiled  face. 
With  the  abundance  of  Thy  grace. 

Keep  far  our  foes,  give  peace  at  home. 
Where  Thou  art  guide,  no  ill  can  come. 

Teach  us  to  know  the  Father,  Son 
And  Thee  of  Both,  to  be  but  One. 

That  through  the  ages  all  along, 
This  may  be  our  endless  song  : 

Praise  to  Thy  Eternal  Merit, 
Father,  Son  and  Holy  Spirit. 

LET  the  words  of  my  mouth,  and  the  medi- 
tation of  my  heart :  be  alway  acceptable  in 
Thy  sight,  O  Lord  :  my  strength  and  my 
redeemer. 

ALMIGHTY  and  Everlasting  God,  Who 
hatest  nothing  that  Thou  hast  made  and 
dost  forgive  the  sins  of  all  those  who  are 
penitent  ;  Create  and  make  in  us  new  and  con- 
trite hearts  that  we  worthily  lamenting  our  sins 
and  acknowledging  our  wretchedness,  may  ob- 
tain of  Thee,  the  GOD  of  all  mercy,  perfect  re- 
mission and  forgiveness  through  Jesus  Christ, 
our  Lord,    Amen, 

ALMIGHTY  God,  we  beseech  Thee,  let  Thy 
Holy  Spirit  be   in   our  minds  that  we 
may  see   our  sins,  in  our  hearts  that  we 
may  hate  them,  in  our  mouths  that  we  may  con- 
fess them.     Drive  away  from  us  all  wicked  de- 


BEFORE  SEI.F  EXAMINATION  87 

sires  and  evil  longings  and  make  us  pure  in 
thought  and  word  and  deed.  Receive  us,  we 
pray  Thee,  in  mercy  and  help  us  to  feel  true 
sorrow  for  our  faults.  Grant  us  grace  to  have 
a  firm  trust  in  Thee  and  wash  us  clean  in  the 
Precious  Blood  of  Jesus.  See  us  not  as  we  are 
in  ourselves  but  as  we  appear  in  Him,  En- 
lighten us  with  the  grace  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit, 
that  truly  repenting  of  our  sins,  earnestly  re- 
solved to  lead  a  new  life  and  in  love  and  charity 
with  all  men,  we  may  worthily  receive  the 
Blessed  Sacrament  of  the  Body  and  Blood  of 
Christ,  with  all  the  benefits  and  blessings  of 
the  same,  all  of  which  we  ask  through  the  Merits 
and  Mediation  of  Thy  dear  Son,  our  Lord  and 
Saviour  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 

{Or  this) 

OMOST  Merciful  God  and  Heavenly 
Father,  who  art  ever  ready  to  receive 
those  who  turn  to  Thee,  in  sorrow  and  re- 
pentance, look  with  compassion,  we  beseech 
Thee,  upon  us,  who  come  to  be  cleansed  in  the 
Precious  Blood  of  Jesus.  Lighten  our  dark- 
ness that  we  may  see  our  sins  as  clearly  as  we 
shall  see  them  when  we  stand  to  be  judged  before 
the  Tribunal  at  the  Last  Day.  Grant  us  to  know 
ourselves  as  Thou  dost  know  us,  that  we  may 
perceive  to  the  full  extent  the  evil  result  of  our 
wicked  doings  and  humbly  and  penitently  be- 
wailing them,  may  obtain  Thy  pardon  and  for- 
giveness througii  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

{Here  7nay  be  said  the  following.,  or  else  one  may  pass 
directly  to  the  examination.) 


o 


UR  FATHER,  Who  art  in  Heaven,  etc. 


88     PREPARATION  FOR   HOI^Y  COMMUNION 

O   SAVIOUR    of  the  world,   Who  by   Thy 
Cross  and  Precious  Blood  hast  redeemed 
us,  save  us  and  help  us,  we  humbly  be- 
seech Thee,  O  Lord.     Amen. 

Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

REMEMBER  not,  O  Lord,  our  offences,  nor 
the  offences   of  our   forefathers,    neither 
take  Thou  vengeance  of  our  sins.      Spare 
us,  good  Lord,  spare  Thy  people,  whom  Thou 
hast  redeemed  with  Thy  Most  Precious  Blood 
and  be  not  angry  with  us  forever. 

I  WILL  wash  my  hands  in  innocency,  O 
Lord,  and  so  I  will  go  to  Thine  Altar. 

I  SAID,  I  will  confess  my  sins  unto  the  Lord 
and  so  Thou  forgavest  the  wickedness  of  my 
sin. 

FOR  we  have  an  Advocate  with  the  Father, 
Jesus  Christ,  the  Righteous,  and  He  is 
the  Propitiation  for  our  sins. 

SELF-EXAMINATION.i 

Have  I  had  Faith,  believing  firmly  in  God, 
the  Holy,  Blessed,  and  Glorious  Trinity  ; 
in  the  Father,  Who  hath  made  me  and 

^  This  form  is  according  to  our  Duty  towards  God  and 
our  Duty  towards  our  neighbour,  and  also  questions  by 
the  Three  Theological  Virtues  and  the  Seven  Deadly 
Sins.  If  too  long,  one's  own  questions  may  be  used,  or 
the  shorter  form  given  later  on. 


SEI.F  EXAMINATION  89 

all  the  world  ;  in  the  Son,  Who  hath  re- 
deemed me  and  all  mankind  ;  in  the 
Holy  Ghost,  Who  sanctifiethmeand  all 
the  people  of  God  ?  Have  I  believed  in 
the  Incarnate  Life  of  Jesus  Christ  ;  in 
the  Work  of  the  Holy  Ghost  ;  in  the 
Church,  in  the  Scriptures,  in  the  Creed  as 
teaching  "  all  things  necessary  to  Salva- 
tion "  ;  in  the  Sacraments  as  the  chief 
means  of  Grace  ?  Have  I  given  assent  to 
all  that  the  Church  teaches  ?  Have  I 
been  careful  never  to  believe,  or  to  follow 
"false  doctrine,  heresy,  or  schism"? 
Have  I  relied  on  God's  Grace,  trusting 
in  His  Power  and  not  in  myself  ? 

Have  I  had  Hope,  putting  my  whole  trust  in 
God  ;  relying  on  His  Promise  of  salva- 
tion ;  using  His  Grace  ;  not  presuming  on 
His  Mercy  or  despairing  of  His  Forgive- 
ness ;  being  resigned  to  His  Will  in  all 
things  ? 

Have  I  had  Charity  or  Love  towards  God, 
by  having  a  holy  fear  of  sinning  against 
His  Love  ;  by  worshipping  Him  in  spirit 
and  in  truth  ;  by  going  to  Him  as  the 
Church  directs,  in  public  and  private 
prayer  ;  by  offering  praise  and  thanks- 
giving ;  by  attending  service  and  receiv- 
ing the  Holy  Communion  ;  by  diligently 
calling  upon  Him ;  by  honouring  His  Holy 
Name  and  Word  ;  by  reverencing  His 
Church,  His  Ministers  and  all  holy  things 
and  places  ?  Have  I  loved  God  with  all 
my  heart,  above  all  else  ;  with  all  my  mind 
by  reading  and  meditating  on  the  Bible 


90      PRBPARATION  FOR   HOI.Y  COMMUNION 

and  learning  of  God  and  His  Word  ;  with 
all  my  soul,  by  cultivating  the  spiritual 
life  and  living  close  to  Jesus  ;  with  all 
my  strength,  by  serving  Him  truly  all  the 
days  of  my  life,  using  my  talents,  oppor- 
tunities and  privileges  for  His  Great 
Glory  and  fitting  myself  for  the  world  to 
come  ? 

Have  I  had  Charity  towards  man,  by  loving 
my  neighbour  as  myself  and  doing  unto  all 
men  as  I  would  that  they  should  do  unto 
me?  Have  I  loved,  honoured,  and  suc- 
coured my  father  and  mother,  and  tried  to 
do  my  duty  in  the  family  and  social  rela- 
tions? Have  I  been  kind,  loving,  gentle, 
forbearing,  and  forgiving  ?  Have  I 
honoured  and  obeyed  the  civil  authority, 
by  keeping  the  laws  of  the  land  ?  Have 
I  submitted  myself  to  all  my  governors 
(those  who  direct  me),  to  my  teachers 
(those  who  instruct  me),  to  my  spiritual 
pastors  (those  in  the  Sacred  Ministry)  and 
to  my  masters  (those  above  me  socially, 
intellectually  or  spiritually)  ?  Have  I  or- 
dered myself  lowly  and  reverently  to  all 
my  betters,  remembering  that  no  matter 
how  high  our  position  we  all  have  our 
betters  in  some  way  ?  Have  I  tried  to 
resist  all  temptation  to  Pride,  by  being 
like  our  Lord,  meek,  lowly,  and  humble 
of  heart  ?  Have  I  hurt  nobody  by  word 
or  deed,  but  been  true  and  just  in  all  my 
dealings?  Have  I  borne  no  malice  or 
hatred  in  my  heart,  resisting  the  tempta- 
tion to  Anger,  by  being  forbearing  and 
forgiving  ?      Have  I  kept  my  hands  from 


SElvP  EXAMINATION  9I 

picking  and  stealing,  not  desiring  other 
men's  goods  but  refraining  from  CovET- 
OUSNESS  ;  Have  I  kept  my  tongue  from 
evil  speaking,  lying,  and  slandering,  not 
giving  way  to  Envy  ?  Have  I  kept  my 
body  in  temperance,  soberness,  and  chas- 
tity, not  falling  into  the  sins  of  Drunken- 
ness, Gluttony  or  Impurity  ?  Have  I 
learned  and  laboured  truly  to  get  my  own 
living,  if  necessary,  resisting  all  kind  of 
Sloth?  Have  I  tried  to  do  my  duty  in 
that  state  of  life  unto  which  it  hath 
pleased  God  to  call  me,  being  humble  in 
prosperity,  resigned  in  adversity,  culti- 
vating the  spirit  of  contentment,  doing 
my  very  best  to  live  at  peace  with  all  men 
and  working  for  God's  Glory  ? 

Have  I  tried  to  discipline  myself,  to  be  careful 
in  my  Preparation  for  and  Thanksgiving 
after  Holy  Communion,  trying  to  do 
"whatsoever  things  are  true,  whatsoever 
things  are  honest,  whatsoever  things  are 
just,  whatsoever  things  are  pure,  whatso- 
ever things  are  lovely,  whatsoever  things 
are  of  good  report  "  ^  remembering  that 
God  has  said  ' '  Be  thou  faithful  unto  death 
and  I  will  give  thee  a  Crown  of  Life."  '^ 

{Here  it  is  well  to  ask  a  few  very  pertinent  questions 
of  one'' s  own,  especially  regarding  besettitig  sins,  seeing 
if  there  has  been  any  advance  in  the  spiritual  life  or 
discipline  of  self.  Then  say  most  humbly  and  peni- 
tently the  following  :') 

*  Philippians  iv.  8,  «  Revelation  ii.  10. 


92      PREPARATION  FOR  HOI,Y  COMMUNION 

CONFESSION   OF   SIN  > 

O  ALMIGHTY  and  Most  Merciful  Father, 
I  ackowledge  and  bewail  my  manifold 
sins  and  wickedness,  which  I  from  time 
to  time  most  grievously  have  committed, 
by  thought,  word,  and  deed,  against  Thy 
Divine  Majesty,  provoking  most  justly  Thy 
wrath  and  indignation  against  me.  I  con- 
fess unto  Thee  that  I  have  sinned  exceed- 
ingly, by  omission  and  commission,  through 
my  fault,  my  own  fault,  my  own  most  grievous 

fault  and  especially  ( here  name  your  special 

sins).  O  !  My  God,  have  mercy  upon  me  a 
sinner.  Cast  me  not  away  in  Thy  displeasure 
but  of  Thy  loving  kindness  save  me  and  deliver 
me.  Forgive  me,  I  beseech  Thee,  all  my  of- 
fences and  see  me  not  as  I  am  fn  myself  but  as 
I  appear  in  the  Lord  Jesus.  Absolve  me  I 
pray,  from  these  and  all  other  sins  which  I  can- 
not now  remember;  confirm  and  strengthen  me 
in  all  goodness  and  grant  me  Thy  Grace  and 
Heavenly  Benediction.  Make  me  a  contrite 
heart,  O  Lord,  and  let  me  be  well  pleasing  in 
Thy  Sight.  All  of  which  I  ask  through  the 
Merits  and  Mediation  of  Thy  Dearly  Beloved 
Son,  our  Saviour  Jesus  Christ.    Amen. 

{,Or  else  the  following  Confession^  considerably  adapted 
from  the  "  Imitation  of  ChrISTV) 

^  LMIGHTY   and   Most   Merciful  FATHER, 
Who  art  ever  ready  to  receive  those  who 
turn  to  Thee  in  penitence,  look  with  com- 
passion upon  me,  who  would  humbly  and  sorrow- 

*  See  part  on  Confession.  This  form  is  for  those  who 
do  not  use  Confession  to  a  Priest.  If  that  is  desired,  sec 
Part  III. 


A 


CONFESSION  OF  SIN  93 

fully  confess  my  sins  unto  Thee.  I  am  unwor- 
thy to  be  called  Thy  Child,  for  I  have  sinned 
repeatedly  against  Thee,  by  thought,  word  and 
deed,  by  omission  and  commission,  by  my  fault, 
my  own  fault,  my  own  most  grievous  fault.  I 
confess  unto  Thee  that  I  am  yet  so  carnal  and 
worldly  ;  so  full  of  wrong  desires  ;  so  prone  to 
evil  passions  ;  so  given  to  vain  fancies  ;  so  much 
inclined  to  worldly  affairs,  so  much  opposed  to 
spiritual  works  ;  so  ready  for  foolish  mirth,  so 
averse  to  godly  sorrow  ;  so  disposed  to  bodily 
comfort,  so  neglectful  of  self-discipline  ;  so  anx- 
ious for  abundance,  so  dissatisfied  with  little  ; 
so  admiring  of  the  great,  so  cold  to  the  humble  ; 
so  thoughtless  in  speaking,  so  given  to  gos- 
sip ;  so  averse  to  silence,  so  deaf  to  the  Word  of 
God  ;  so  careless  in  my  habits,  so  neglectful  of 
my  duties  ;  so  quick  to  rest,  so  slow  to  labour  ; 
so  wandering  in  prayer,  so  cold  in  devotion  ;  so 
listless  in  preparation,  so  dry  in  communion  ;  so 
quickly  distracted,  so  seldom  recollected  ; 
so  easily  moved  to  anger,  so  apt  to  take  offence  ; 
so  ready  to  judge,  so  slow  to  forgive  ;  so  harsh 
in  rebuking,  so  hard  in  advising  ;  so  glad  in 
prosperity,  so  v/eak  in  adversity  ;  so  full  of 
wrong  pride,  so  lacking  in  humility  ;  so  inclined 
to  slothful  indulgence,  so  guided  by  selfishness  ; 
so  wanting  in  kindness  towards  man,  so  lacking 
in  love  towards  Thee.  All  these  and  many 
other  sins  {here  mention  any  special  fault)  which 
I  remember,  as  well  as  those  known  only  to  Thee, 
I  sorrowfully  bewail  and  confess.  O  Most  Merci- 
ful Father  grant  me,  I  beseech  Thee,  that  godly 
sorrow  that  worketh  salvation,  so  that  truly  re- 
penting of  my  sins,  earnestly  resolved  to  lead  a 
new  life  and  in  love  and  charity  with  all  men, 
I  may  be  cleansed  from  all  my  offences,  may 


94      PRE^PARATION   FOR   HOI.Y  COMMUNION 

obtain  Thy  pardon  and  forgiveness,  and  may  re- 
ceive to  my  comfort  and  salvation  the  Blessed 
Sacrament  of  the  Body  and  Blood  of  Jesus 
Christ.  All  of  which  I  humbly  ask  through 
Him,  Who  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost  art 
One  God,  world  without  end.     Amen. 

(  Then  say  one  or  all  of  the  following.) 
SHORT    ACTS    OF    CONTRITION 

HAVE  mercy  upon  me,  O  GOD,  after  Thy 
great  goodness  :  according  to  the  multi- 
tude of  Thy  mercies  do  away  mine 
offences.  Wash  me  throughly  from  my  wick- 
edness and  cleanse  me  from  my  sin,  for  I  ac- 
knowledge my  faults  and  my  sin  is  ever  before 
me. 

MY   Soul   cleaveth  to  the  dust  :  O  quicken 
Thou  me   according   to   Thy   Word.      I 
have  acknowledged  my  ways,  and  Thou 
heardest  me  :  O  teach  me  Thy  Statutes. 

I   WILL  lift  up  mine  eyes  unto  the  hills  :  from 
whence  cometh  my  help.     My  help  cometh 
even  from  the  LoRD  :  Who  hath  made  heaven 
and  earth. 


o 


MY  God,  I  believe  in  Thee,  I  hope  in 
Thee,  I  love  Thee,  and  I  grieve  that  I 
have  so  often  offended  Thee  by  my  sins. 

(jOr  this^  adapted f7-om  S.  Augustine.) 


FATHER  I  have  sinned  against  Heaven  and 
before  Thee  and  am  no  more  worthy  to  be 
called  Thy  son.      I  have  ministered  to  my 
own  desires  and  lusts,  despising  Thy  Fatherly 


ACT  OF   FAITH  95 

Love.  I  have  dug  for  myself  cisterns  which  hold 
no  water,  cisterns  of  earthly  joys  and  vanities, 
leaving  Thee  the  Fountain  of  many  waters.  I 
have  sought  pleasure  in  creatures  which  is  only 
to  be  found  in  Thee  ;  and  now  behold  all  is 
vanity  and  vexation  of  spirit,  for  Thou  hast 
made  me  for  Thyself,  and  my  heart  findeth  no 
true  rest  apart  from  Thee.  Therefore  I  return 
to  Thee,  O  Loving  Father,  Whose  Mercy  is 
Infinite,  Whose  Goodness  knoweth  no  end. 
Wherefore  I  cry,  Father  I  have  sinned  against 
Heaven  and  before  Thee  and  am  no  more  wor- 
thy to  be  called  Thy  Son,  make  me  as  one  of 
Thine  hired  servants.  O  grant  that  henceforth  I 
may  walk  in  the  straight  path  and  narrow  way 
that  leadeth  to  Eternal  Life,  where  with  the  Son 
and  the  Holy  Spirit,  Thou  art  unclouded  Light 
and  perfect  Joy  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.     Amen. 

(  Then  say  the  following.^ 
ACT    OF    FAITH 

OLORD  JESUS,  I  believe  that  Thou  art 
the  Christ,  the  Son  of  the  Living  God, 
the  Only  Begotten  of  the  Father.  I  be- 
lieve that  Thou  art  Perfect  God  and  Perfect  Man, 
our  great  High  Priest,  Who  by  Thy  Death  and 
Passion  didst  make  a  full,  perfect,  and  sufficient 
sacrifice,  oblation  and  satisfaction  for  the  sins  of 
the  whole  world.  O  Lord,  I  believe  that  Thou 
art  Present  in  this  Blessed  Sacrament,  so  that 
we  may  plead  this  Holy  Sacrifice  before  the 
Father  and  obtain  remission  of  our  sins  and  all 
other  benefits  of  Thy  Death  and  Passion.  I 
know  that  there  cannot  be  a  greater  joy  than  to 


96      PREPARATION   FOR  HOI.Y  COMMUNION 

receive  Thee  worthily.     Lord,  I  believe,  help 
Thou  mine  unbelief. 

ACT    OF    LOVE 

OMOST  Blessed  Saviour  Jesus  Christ, 
Who  didst  humble  Thyself  to  be  born  of 
a  Virgin  ;  Who  didst  live  a  life  of  sorrow 
and  suffering,  and  didst  endure  the  Agony 
and  Shame  of  the  Passion  that  Thou  mightst 
offer  Thyself  upon  the  Cross  for  our  sins  and 
for  our  salvation  ;  O  Lord,  greater  love  hath 
no  man  than  this,  that  he  die  for  another.  Yet 
Thou  dost  give  Thyself  to  us  in  this  Holy 
Sacrament  to  make  us  partakers  of  Thy  ever- 
lasting life.  O  Lord,  for  this  and  all  Thy 
mercies,  I  offer  unto  Thee  my  heartfelt  love 
and  adoration,  and  beseech  Thee  that  I  may  so 
receive  these  Holy  Mysteries  that  my  whole  life 
may  be  given  up  to  the  one  purpose  of  serving 
Thee.  O  Saviour  of  the  world,  draw  us  closer 
unto  Thee,  that  henceforth  we  may  live  to  Thy 
Honour  and  Glory,  and  may  love  Thee,  adore 
Thee  and  worship  Thee  ever  more  and  more. 

ACT    OF    HUMILITY 

OLORD,  Who  am  I  that  I  should  dare  to 
draw  nigh  unto  Thee  and  receive  Thee, 
the  King  of  Kings  and  Lord  of  Lords  ! 
I  am  not  worthy  to  gather  up  the  crumbs  under 
Thy  table.  Yet  Thou,  O  LoRD,camest  not  to  call 
the  righteous  but  sinners  to  repentance,  and  dost 
bid  all  approach  unto  Thee  who  are  weary  and 
heavy-laden  with  their  sins.  Therefore,  O  My 
Saviour,  with  the  publican  I  cry,  "  GoD,  be  mer- 
ciful to  me  a  sinner."    I  am  bowed  down  with 


BEHOLD,  AND  SEE  IF  THERE  BE  ANY 
SORROW  LIKE  UNTO  MY 
SORROW." 


RESOI.UTION  OF  AMENDMENT  97 

the  burden  of  wrong-doing.  O  Lord,  I  come 
unto  Thee.  Do  Thou  in  Thy  mercy  come  unto 
me  that  I  may  find  pardon  for  my  sin  and  rest 
for  my  soul. 

ACT    OF    REPARATION 

O  SAVIOUR  of  the  world,  Who  didst  deign 
to  be  led  as  a  sheep  to  the  slaughter  and  to 
be  nailed  to  the  Cross,  for  us  men  and  for 
our  salvation  ;  Who  didst  pray  for  Thy  murderers, 
even  as  now  Thou  dost  intercede  for  those  who 
deny  Thee  in  their  life  or  crucify  Thee  in  their 
heart  by  neglecting  these  Holy  Mysteries  or  re- 
ceiving Thee  without  true  faith,  love  and  repent- 
ance, I  bewail  these  and  all  other  sins  against 
Thy  Divine  Majesty,  and  beseech  Thee  to  have 
mercy  upon  us.  O  grant  that  we  and  all  others 
who  shall  approach  Thy  Holy  Altar  may  offer 
ourselves  a  holy  sacrifice  unto  Thee,  and  receive 
to  our  soul's  comfort,  and  to  Thy  Honour  and 
Glory,  this  Blessed  Sacrament  of  Thy  Body  and 
Blood. 

resolution  of  amendment 

OM Y  God,  I  desire  to  amend  my  life  and  to 
live  henceforth  as  is  well  pleasing  unto 
Thee.  Do  Thou,  in  Thy  mercy,  grant 
me  Thy  Grace  that  I  may  overcome  all  tempta- 
tions and  persevering  unto  the  end,  may,  through 
Thy  Merits  and  Mediation  obtain  Everlasting 
Life. 

{Here  may  be  said  Psalm  Ixxxiv.^or  some  o/the  Peni- 
tential Devotions  in  Part  III,  or  one  may  turn  directly 
to  the  Devotions  which  follow?) 


DEVOTIONS 

FOR 

HOLY    COMMUNION 

Mainly  from  Ancient  Sources 


(  To  be  said  the  evening  before) 

Antiphon  :     O  how  plenteous  is  Thy  Goodness, 
O  Lord. 

Psalm  lxxxiv.     Quam  dilecta  ! 

OHOW  amiable  are  Thy  dwellings  :   Thou 
Lord  of  hosts  ! 

2  My  soul  hath  a  desire  and  longing  to  enter 
into  the  courts  of  the  Lord  :  my  heart  and  my 
flesh  rejoice  in  the  living  God. 

3  Yea,  the  sparrow  hath  found  her  an  house, 
and  the  swallow  a  nest,  where  she  may  lay  her 
young  :  even  Thy  altars,  O  Lord  of  hosts,  my 
King  and  my  God. 

4  Blessed  are  they  that  dwell  in  Thy  house  • 
they  will  be  always  praising  Thee. 

5  Blessed  is  the  man  whose  strength  is  in 
Thee  :   in  whose  heart  are  Thy  ways. 

6  Who  going  through  the  vale  of  misery  use 

98 


DEVOTIONS  FOR   HOI,Y  COMMUNION     99 

it    for   a   well  :   and    the    pools  are  filled  with 
water. 

7  They  will  go  from  strength  to  strength : 
and  unto  the  God  of  gods  appeareth  every  one 
of  them  in  Sion. 

8  O  Lord  God  of  hosts,  hear  my  prayer  : 
hearken,  O  God  of  Jacob. 

9  Behold,  O  God  our  defender :  and  look 
upon  the  face  of  Thine  Anointed. 

10  For  one  day  in  Thy  courts  :  is  better  than 
a  thousand. 

Ill  had  rather  be  a  door-keeper  in  the  house 
of  my  God  :  than  to  dwell  in  the  tents  of 
ungodliness. 

12  For  the  Lord  God  is  a  light  and  defence  : 
the  Lord  will  give  grace  and  worship,  and  no 
good  thing  shall  He  withhold  from  them  that 
live  a  godly  life. 

13  O  Lord  God  of  hosts  :  blessed  is  the  man 
that  putteth  his  trust  in  Thee. 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  etc. 

Psalm  lxxxv.     Benedixisti,  Domine. 

LORD,  Thou  art  become  gracious  unto  Thy 
land  :  Thou  hast  turned  away  the  captiv- 
ity of  Jacob. 

2  Thou  hast  forgiven  the  offence  of  Thy 
people  :  and  covered  all  their  sins. 

3  Thou  hast  taken  away  all  Thy  displeasure  : 
and  turned  Thyself  from  Thy  wrathful  indig- 
nation. 

4  Turn  us  then,  O  God  our  Saviour  :  and  let 
Thine  anger  cease  from  us. 

5  Wilt  Thou  be  displeased  at  us  for  ever  : 
and  wilt  Thou  stretch  out  Thy  wrath  from  one 
generation  to  another  ? 


lOO      DEVOTIONS   FOR   HOI,Y  COMMUNION 

6  Wilt  Thou  not  turn  again  and  quicken  us  : 
that  Thy  people  may  rejoice  in  Thee  ? 

7  Show  us  Thy  mercy,  O  Lord  :  and  grant  us 
Thy  salvation. 

8  I  will  hearken  what  the  Lord  God  will 
say  concerning  me  :  for  He  shall  speak  peace 
unto  His  people,  and  to  His  saints,  that  they 
turn  not  again. 

9  For  His  salvation  is  nigh  them  that  fear 
Him  :  that  glory  may  dwell  in  our  land. 

10  Mercy  and  truth  are  met  together  :  right- 
eousness and  peace  have  kissed  each  other. 

11  Truth  shall  flourish  out  of  the  earth  ;  and 
righteousness  hath  looked  down  from  heaven. 

12  Yea,  the  Lord  shall  show  loving-kindness  : 
and  our  land  shall  give  her  increase. 

13  Righteousness  shall  go  before  Him  :  and 
He  shall  direct  his  going  in  the  way. 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  etc. 

Psalm  lxxxvi.     Inclina,  DoDiine. 

BOW  down  Thine  ear,  O   Lord,  and   hear 
me  :  for  I  am  poor,  and  in  misery. 
2  Preserve  Thou  my  soul,  for  I  am  holy : 
my  God,  save  Thy  servant  that  putteth  his  trust 
in  Thee. 

3  Be  merciful  unto  me,  O  Lord  :  for  I  will 
call  daily  upon  Thee. 

4  Comfort  the  soul  of  Thy  servant  :  for  unto 
Thee,  O  Lord,  do  I  lift  up  my  soul, 

5  For  Thou,  Lord,  art  good  and  gracious:  and 
of  great  mercy  unto  all  them  that  call  upon  Thee. 

6  Give  ear,  Lord,  unto  my  prayer :  and 
ponder  the  voice  of  my  humble  desires. 

7  In  the  time  of  my  trouble  I  will  call  upon 
Thee  :  for  Thou  hearest  me. 


DEVOTIONS  FOR   HOLY   COMMUNION      lOl 

8  Among  the  gods  there  is  none  like  unto 
Thee,  O  Lord  :  there  is  not  one  that  can  do  as 
Thou  doest. 

9  All  nations  whom  Thou  hast  made  shall 
come  and  worship  Thee,  O  Lord  :  and  shall 
glorify  Thy  Name. 

10  For  Thou  art  great,  and  doest  wondrous 
things  :  Thou  art  God  alone. 

11  Teach  me  Thy  way,  O  Lord,  and  I  will 
walk  in  Thy  truth  :  O  knit  my  heart  unto  Thee, 
that  I  may  fear  Thy  Name. 

12  I  will  thank  Thee,  O  Lord  my  God,  with 
all  my  heart :  and  will  praise  Thy  Name  for 
evermore. 

13  For  great  is  Thy  mercy  toward  me  :  and 
Thou  hast  delivered  my  soul  from  the  nether- 
most hell. 

14  O  God,  the  proud  are  risen  against  me  : 
and  the  congregations  of  naughty  men  have 
sought  after  my  soul,  and  have  not  set  Thee 
before  their  eyes. 

15  But  Thou,  O  Lord  God,  art  full  of  com- 
passion and  mercy  :  long-suffering,  plenteous  in 
goodness  and  truth. 

16  O  turn  Thee  then  unto  me,  and  have 
mercy  upon  me  :  give  Thy  strength  unto  Thy 
servant,  and  help  the  son  of  Thine  handmaid. 

17  Show  some  token  upon  me  for  good  ;  that 
they  who  hate  me  may  see  it,  and  be  ashamed : 
because  Thou,  Lord,  hast  holpen  me,  and  com- 
forted me. 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  etc. 

(//"  desired  there  may  be  used  in  place  0/  the  above. 
Psalms  li.y  cxxx.,  cxliii.^  or  xv.,  xxii,,  xxiii.,  or  xxvi., 
xxvii.,  xxviii.) 

Antiphon :   O   how   plenteous  is  Thy  Good- 


I02      DEVOTIONS   FOR   HOI,Y  COMMUNION 

ness,  O  Lord,   which  Thou  hast  prepared  for 
those  that  put  their  trust  in  Thee. 


L 


ORD,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 


OUR  Father,  W.ho  art  in  heaven,  Hal- 
lowed be  Thy  Name.  Thy  kingdom 
come.  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth.  As  it 
is  in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread. 
And  forgive  us  our  trespasses,  As  we  forgive 
those  that  trespass  against  us  and  lead  us  not 
into  temptation  ;  but  deliver  us  from  evil. 
Amen. 

I  said,  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  me.  Heal  my 
soul,  for  I  have  sinned  against  Thee. 

Turn  Thee  again,  O  Lord,  at  the  last.  And 
be  gracious  unto  Thy  servants. 

O  Lord,  let  Thy  mercy  be  shewed  upon  us. 
As  we  do  put  our  trust  in  Thee. 

Let  Thy  priests  be  clothed  with  righteousness. 
And  Thy  saints  sing  with  joy  fulness. 

Lord,  cleanse  Thou  me  from  my  secret  faults. 
Keep  Thy  servant  also  frotn  presumptuous  sins. 

O  Lord,  hear  my  prayer.  And  let  my  cry 
come  unto  Thee. 

The  Lord  be  with  you.  And  with  Thy  spirit. 

Let  us  pray. 

MOST  gracious  God,  incline  Thy  merciful 
ears  to  our  prayers,   and  enlighten  our 
hearts  by  the  grace  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit, 
that  we  may  worthily  approach  Thy  Holy  Mys- 
teries, and  love  Thee  with  an  everlasting  love. 


DEVOTIONS  FOR  HOI,Y  COMMUNION      I03 

OLORD,   we  beseech  Thee,  may  the  Com- 
forter,Who  proceedeth  from  Thee,  illu- 
minate our  minds,  and  lead  us,  as  Thy 
Son  hath  promised,  into  all  truth. 

OLORD,  we  beseech  Thee,  may  the  power 
of  the  Holy  Spirit  be  with  us,  and  both 
mercifully  cleanse  our  hearts  and  defend 
us  from  all  adversities. 

CLEANSE  our  consciences,  we  beseech 
Thee,  O  Lord  by  Thy  visitation,  that 
Thy  Son,  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  when 
He  cometh,  may  find  in  us  a  mansion  prepared 
for  Himself  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord, 
Who  liveth  and  reigneth  with  Thee,  in  the  Unity 
of  the  same  Spirit,  ever  One  God,  world  without 
end.     Amen. 

ALMIGHTY  and  Everlasting  God,  behold  I 
approach  the  Sacrament  of  Thy  Only 
Begotten  Son,  Jesus  Christ.  As  one 
sick  I  come  to  the  Physician  of  life  :  as  unclean 
to  the  Fountain  of  mercy  :  as  blind  to  the  Light 
of  eternal  splendour  :  as  needy  to  the  Lord  of 
Heaven  and  earth  :  as  naked  to  the  King  of 
Glory  :  a  lost  sheep  to  the  Good  Shepherd  :  a 
fallen  creature  to  its  Creator  :  desolate  to  the 
kind  Comforter  :  miserable  to  the  Pitier  :  guilty 
to  the  Bestower  of  pardon  :  sinful  to  the  Justifier  : 
hardened  to  the  Giver  of  Grace.  I  implore 
therefore  the  abundance  of  Thy  Infinite  Bounty 
that  Thou  wouldst  vouchsafe  to  heal  my  sick- 
ness, to  wash  my  foulness,  to  enlighten  my 
darkness,  to  enrich  my  poverty,  and  to  clothe 
my  nakedness  ;  that  I  may  receive  the  Bread  of 
Angels,  the  King  of  Kings,  the  Lord  of  Lords, 


I04      DEVOTIONS  I'^OR   HOI^Y  COMMUNION 

with  such  reverence  and  humility,  with  such 
love  and  contrition,  with  such  faith  and  devo- 
tion as  is  good  for  the  welfare  of  my  soul. 
Grant  me,  I  pray,  not  only  to  receive  the  Sacra- 
ment of  the  Lord's  Body  and  Blood,  but  also 
the  virtue  of  the  Sacrament.  O  Most  Merciful 
God,  grant  me  so  to  receive  the  Body  and  Blood 
of  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ,  that  I  may  be  incor- 
porated in  His  Mystical  Body  and  washed  from 
every  stain  of  sin.  And  O  Most  Loving  Father, 
grant  me  that  Him,  Whom  I  now  purpose  to 
receive  beneath  a  veil,  I  may  hereafter  behold 
with  unveiled  face,  even  Thy  Beloved  Son, 
Who  with  Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost  liveth 
and  reigneth  ever  One  God,  for  ever  and  ever. 
Amen.  * 


o 


TASTE  and  see  how  gracious  the  Lord  is. 
Alleluia  !  Alleluia  !  Alleluia  1  ^ 


WILL   bless  the  Lord   at  all  times.     His 
praise  shall  be  ever  in  my  mouth. 
Alleluia  !  Alleluia  !  Alleluia  ! " 


T 


HE  Lord  will  redeem  the  souls  of  His  ser- 
vants and  will  forsake  none  of  those  that 
trust    in    Him. 

Alleluia  !  Alleluia  !  Alleluia  !  2 

>  LORY  and  Honour  be  to  the  Father  and 
[     to  the  Son  and  to  the  Holy  Ghost,  for- 
ever and  ever.     A??ien.^ 


^  Adapted  from  S.  Thomas  Aquinas. 
'  From  the  Mozarabic  Liturgy. 


I 


DEVOTIONS   FOR   HOI.Y   COMMUNION      I05 

WILL  lift  up  mine  eyes  unto  the  hills  :  from 
whence  cometh  my  help. 

I  WAS  glad  when  they  said  unto  me  :  we  will 
go  into  the  house  of  the  Lord, 

LIKE  as  the  hart  desireth  the  water  brooks  : 
so  longeth  my  soul  after  Thee,  O  God. 


(One  should  be  recollected  and  very  careful  until  the 
morning  of  Cotnmunion^  thinking  frequently  of  the 
Precious  Gift  to  be  received.,  of  CHRIST  coming  to  the 
Soul.) 


THE  ORDER  FOR  THE 

ADMINISTRATION  OF  THE 

LORD'S  SUPPER 

OR 

HOLY  COMMUNION. 


{.The  Use  here  set  forth  is  that  0/  the  American 
Church.  To  save  space  the  Rubrics^  Exhortations  and 
Sentences  are  generally  omitted^  as  not  being  necessary. 
Since  the  intention  of  this  Church  is  that  the  Service  be 
read  audibly  ''''  in  a  tongue  understa7ided  of  the  people^'' 
all  should  carefully  follow  it  throughout,  tnaking  the 
devotions  their  own  and  only  adding  private  prayers  at 
pauses  made  by  the  Priest.,  as  during  the  Offertory ,  the 
CoDnnunion  and  at  the  close  of  the  Office.  The  Prayers 
of  the  Cojnmunion  Offce  are  leaded  to  distinguish  them 
from,  the  Private  Devotions  here  included. 

It  is  well  to  be  in  Church  some  little  time  before  the 
Service  begins  in  order  to  say  carefully  one's  own 
prayers  and  also  the  following  :) 


BEFORE  THE  SERVICE, 

N  the  Name  "t"  of  the  Father  and  of  the  Son 
and  of  the  HoLY  Ghost.  Amen. 

Antiphon.     I  will  go  unto  the  Altar  of  God. 

106 


BEFORE  THE  SERVICE  I07 


Psalm  xliii.  yndica  vie^  Dezis. 

GIVE  sentence  with  me,  O  GOD,  and  defend 
my  cause  against  the  ungodly  people  ;  O 
deliver  me  from  the  deceitful  and  wicked 
man. 

For  Thou  art  the  GoD  of  my  strength,  why  hast 
Thou  put  me  from  Thee  ?  and  why  go  I  so  heavily, 
while  the  enemy  oppresseth  me  ? 

O  send  out  Thy  light  and  Thy  truth,  that 
they  may  lead  me,  and  bring  me  unto  Thy  holy 
hill,  and  to  Thy  dwelling  ; 

And  that  I  may  go  unto  the  Altar  of  GOD, 
even  unto  the  GoD  of  my  joy  and  gladness,  and 
upon  the  harp  will  I  give  thanks  unto  Thee,  O 
God,  my  God. 

Why  art  thou  so  heavy,  O  my  soul  ?  and  why 
art  thou  so  disquieted  within  me  ? 

O  put  thy  trust  in  GOD,  for  I  will  yet  give  Him 
thanks,  which  is  the  help  of  my  countenance,  and 
my  God. 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  etc. 

Antiphon.  I  will  go  unto  the  Altar  of  GOD, 
even  unto  the  God  of  my  joy  and  gladness. 

TAKE  away  from  us  all  our  iniquities,  we  be- 
seech   Thee,    O    Lord  :     that   with   pure 
hearts  we  may  go  unto  the  Holy  of  Holies  : 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.    Amen.^ 

MAKE  me  a  clean  heart,  O  Lord,  and  renew 
a   right  spirit  within  me.     O  grant  me 
worthily  to  receive  these  Holy  Mysteries 
and  to  love  Thee  with  an  everlasting  love. 


*  Adapted  from  Old  Sarum  Use. 


Io8    THE  ORDER  OF   HOI<Y  COMMUNION 


PRAYER    OF    INTENTION. 

OMOST  Merciful  Father,  we  humbly  ap- 
proach Thine  Altar  to  offer  and  re-present 
unto  Thee  the  One,  Pure  and  Holy  Sacri- 
fice which  our  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ 
made  once  upon  the  Cross  and  now  ever  pleads 
for  us  in  Heaven,  and  which  He  hath  commanded 
us  to  show  forth  here  on  earth.  Grant,  we  be- 
seech Thee,  that  this  Offering  may  be  acceptable 
at  our  hands  and  may  avail  for  us  and  for  whom 
it  is  presented,  and  see  us  not  as  we  are  in  our- 
selves but  as  we  appear  in  the  Lord  Jesus.  We 
present  it  unto  Thee,  first  for  Thine  Honour  and 
Glory,  as  the  one  acceptable  Sacrifice  which  we 
can  offer  unto  Thee.  We  also  offer  it  in  thanks- 
giving for  all  Thy  blessings  to  us  and  to  all  men 
(especially  ...),'  for  the  forgiveness  of  all  our 
sins  {especially  .  .  .  )  \  for  the  attainment  of  all 
virtues  (especially  .  .  .  )  \  for  our  Church  and 
Parish  {especially  .  .  .  ),  for  the  Clergy  {especially 
.  .  .  ),  for  those  near  and  dear  to  us  {especially 
.  .  .  )  and  for  all  Thy  people.  We  beseech  Thee 
to  accept  this  our  Sacrifice  of  Praise  and  Thanks- 
giving, this  the  Memorial  of  the  Death  and  Pas- 
sion of  Thy  Dear  Son,  granting  us  and  those  for 
whom  we  pray  these  and  all  other  blessings  which 
Thou  seest  us  to  need.  All  of  which  we  ask 
through  the  Merits  and  Mediation  of  Jesus 
Christ,  our  Lord  and  Redeemer.    Amen. 

( Here  may  be  added  the    Vent    Creator  page  85,  or 
Devotions  beginning  on  page  141  if  desired. 

^  Here    name  some  special   need  of  God's   mercy   or 
some  special  petition. 


the;  order   of  HOI.Y  COMMUNION     IO9 
II. 

THE  ORDER  OF  HOLY  COiMMUNION. 

THE   lord's    prayer.* 

OUR  Father,  Who  art  in  heaven,  Hallowed 
be  Thy  Name.  Thy  kingdom  come.  Thy 
will  be  done  on  earth,  As  it  is  in  heaven.  Give 
us  this  day  our  daily  bread.  And  forgive  us  our 
trespasses,  As  we  forgive  those  who  trespass 
against  us.  And  lead  us  not  into  temptation  ; 
But  deliver  us  from  evil.     Amen. 

COLLECT  FOR  PURITY. 

ALMIGHTY  God,  unto  Whom  all  hearts  are 
open,  all  desires  known,  and  from  Whom 
no  secrets  are  hid  ;  Cleanse  the  thoughts  of  our 
hearts  by  the  inspiration  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit 
that  we  may  perfectly  love  Thee,  and  worthily 
magnify  Thy  holy  Name  ;  through  Christ  our 
Lord.     Amen. 

the    TEN    commandments. 

GOD  spake  these  words,  and  said  :  I  am  the 
Lord  thy  God  ;  Thou  shalt  have  none 
other  gods  but  Me. 

People.     Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  in  • 
cline  our  hearts  to  keep  this  law. 

Minister.   Thou  shalt  not  make  to  thyself  any 

*  Here  said  by  Priest  only,  according  to  the  Rubric. 


no  the:  order  of  hoi<y  communion 

graven  image,  nor  the  likeness  of  anything  that 
is  in  heaven  above,  or  in  the  earth  beneath,  or  in 
the  water  under  the  earth  ;  thou  shalt  not  bow 
down  to  them,  nor  worship  them  ;  for  I  the 
Lord  Thy  God  am  a  jealous  God,  and  visit  the 
sins  of  the  fathers  upon  the  children,  unto  the 
third  and  fourth  generation  of  them  that  hate 
Me  ;  and  show  mercy  unto  thousands  in  them 
that  love  Me  and  keep  My  commandments. 

People.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  in- 
cline our  hearts  to  keep  this  law. 

Minister.  Thou  shalt  not  take  the  Name  of 
the  Lord  thy  God  in  vain  ;  for  the  Lord  will 
not  hold  him  guiltless,  that  taketh  His  Name  in 
vain. 

People.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  in- 
cline our  hearts  to  keep  this  law. 

Minister.  Remember  that  thou  keep  holy  the 
Sabbath-day.  Six  days  shalt  thou  labour,  and 
do  all  that  thou  hast  to  do  ;  but  the  seventh  day 
is  the  Sabbath  of  the  Lord  thy  God.  In  it  thou 
shalt  do  no  manner  of  work  ;  thou,  and  thy  son, 
and  thy  daughter,  thy  man-servant,  and  thy 
maid-servant,  thy  cattle,  and  the  stranger  that 
is  within  thy  gates.  For  in  six  days  the  Lord 
made  heaven  and  earth,  the  sea,  and  all  that 
in  them  is,  and  rested  the  seventh  day  :  where- 
fore the  Lord  blessed  the  seventh  day,  and 
hallowed  it. 


THE  ORDER   OF   HOI.Y  COMMUNION    III 

People.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  incline 
our  hearts  to  keep  this  law. 

iMinister.  Honour  thy  father  and  thy  mother  ; 
that  thy  days  may  be  long  in  the  land  which 
the  Lord  thy  God  giveth  thee. 

People.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  in- 
cline our  hearts  to  keep  this  law. 

Minister.   Thou  shalt   do  no  murder. 

People.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and 
incline  our  hearts  to  keep  this  law. 

Minister.  Thou  shalt  not  commit  adultery. 

People.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and 
incline  our  hearts  to  keep  this  law. 

Minister.  Thou  shalt  not  steal. 

People.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  in- 
cline our  hearts  to  keep  this  law. 

Minister.  Thou  shalt  not  bear  false  witness 
against  thy  neighbour. 

People.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  incline 
our  hearts  to  keep  this  law. 

Minister.  Thou  shalt  not  covet  thy  neigh- 
bour's house,  thou  shalt  not  covet  thy  neighbour's 
wife,  nor  his  servant,  nor  his  maid,  nor  his  ox, 
nor  his  ass,  nor  anything  that  is  his. 

People.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  write 
all  these  Thy  laws  in  our  hearts,  we  beseech 
Thee. 

{_Hear  may  be  said) 

Not  my  will,  but  Thine  be  done,  O  Lord. 


112    THE  ORDER  OF   HOI.Y  COMMUNION 

SHORT    SUMMARY   OF   THE    LAW. 
T[  Then  the  Minister  may  say. 

Hear  also  what  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  saith. 

THOU  shalt  love  the  Lord  thy  God  with  all 
thy  heart,  and  with  all  thy  soul,  and  with 
all  thy  mind.  This  is  the  first  and  great 
commandment.  And  the  second  is  like  unto 
it  ;  Thou  shalt  love  thy  neighbour  as  thyself. 
On  these  two  commandments  hang  all  the  Law 
and  the  Prophets. 

^  Here,  if  the  Decalogue  hath  been  omitted,  shall  be 
said. 


L 


ORD,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Christ,  have  me^'cy  upon  us. 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 


If  Theti  the  Minister  may  say. 
Let  us  pray. 

O  ALMIGHTY  Lord,  and  everlasting  God, 
vouchsafe,  we  beseech  Thee,  to  direct, 
sanctify,  and  govern,  both  our  hearts  and 
bodies,  in  the  ways  of  Thy  laws,  and  in  the 
works  of  Thy  commandments ;  that,  through 
Thy  most  mighty  protection,  both  here  and  ever, 
we  may  be  preserved  in  body  and  soul ;  through 
our  Lord  and  Saviour, Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 


THE  ORDER  OF  HOI^Y  COMMUNION    II3 

COLLECT    FOR   THE   DAY. 

THE   EPISTLE. 

THE    HOLY    GOSPEL. 

( Before  the  Gospel  say)  : 

*'  Glory  be  to  Thee,  O  Lord." 

{After  the  Gospel  say)  : 

"  Thanks  be  to  Thee,  O  Christ." 

THE    NICENE    CREED. 

1  BELIEVE  in  one  God  the  Father  Almighty, 
Maker  of  heaven  and  earth,  And  of  all 
things  visible  and  invisible  : 

And  in  one  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  only-be- 
gotten Son  of  God;  Begotten  of  His  Father  be- 
fore all  w^orlds,  God  of  God,  Light  of  Light, 
Very  God  of  Very  God  ;  Begotten,  not  made  ; 
Being  of  one  substance  with  the  Father  ;  By 
Whom  all  things  were  made  :  Who  for  us  men 
and  for  our  salvation  came  down  from  heaven. 
And  was  incarnate  by  the  Holy  Ghost  of  the 
Virgin  Mary,  And  was  made  Man  :  And  was 
crucified  also  for  us  under  Pontius  Pilate,  He 
suffered  and  was  buried  :  And  the  third  day  he 
rose  again  according  to  the  Scriptures  :  And 
ascended  into  heaven,  And  sitteth  on  the  right 
hand  of  the  Father  :  And  he  shall  come  again, 
with  glory,  to  judge  both  the  quick  and  the 
dead  ;  Whose  kingdom  shall  have  no  end. 

And  I  believe  in  the  Holy  Ghost,  The  Lord, 


114    THE  ORDER  OF   HOI^Y   COMMUNION 

and  Giver  of  Life,  Who  proceedeth  from  the 
Father  and  the  Son  ;  Who  with  the  Father  and 
the  Son  together  is  worshipped  and  glorified  ; 
Who  spake  by  the  Prophets  :  And  I  believe  one 
Catholic  and  Apostolic  Church  :  I  acknowledge 
one  Baptism  for  the  remission  of  sins  :  And  I 
look  for  the  Resurrection  of  the  dead  :  And  the 
Life  of  the  world  to  come.     At7ien. 

OFFERTORY    SENTENCES. 

PRESENTATION    OF   ALMS    AND    OBLATIONS. 

i^At  Presentation  o/ Alms  may  be  said)  : 

ALL    things   come  of   Thee   O   Lord,  and 
of    Thine    Own    have    we    given    Thee. 
May    we    ever  use   Thy  Gifts  to   Thine 
Honour  and  Glory. 

{At  Presentation  0/ Oblations  may  be  said)  : 

ACCEPT,    O    Lord,    these    Thy  Gifts   of 
Bread   and    Wine,    which   we   now  offer 
unto  Thee  and  grant  that  through  Thy 
Word  and  Holy  Spirit  they  may  become  the 
Body    and    Blood    of    our    Saviour,    Jesus 
Christ. 

prayer  for  the  church.* 
Let  us  pray  for  the  whole  state  of  Christ's 
Church  militant. 

ALMIGHTY    and  everliving  God,   who  by 
Thy  holy  Apostle  hast  taught  us  to  make 

1  To  leave  here  as  is  the  custom  of  some,  is  most  un- 
seemly and  irreverent.  It  dishonours  Christ,  dis- 
turbs the  worshippers  and  pronounces  those  who  leave 
unfit  to  remain  with  Christian  people. 


THE  ORDER   OF  HOI,Y  COMMUNION    II5 

prayers,  and  supplications,   and  to  give  thanks 

for  all  men  ;  We  humbly  beseech 

Thee  most  mercifully  [*  to  accept       *  If  there  be 

our  ahns  and  oblations,  and]  to     ^'^  ''^'''^ '"'  '"^^^- 

,  .   ,       tions,  then  shall 
receive  these  our  prayers,  which     ^^^    ^^^^^    ^^^ 

M'e  offer  unto  Thy  Divine  Maj-     accept  our  alms 

esty  ;  beseeching  Thee  to  inspire     and      oblations, 

continually  the  Universal  Church     ^"^^^  ^^  ^'f*  «^^- 

■  1       1  .    •         *  1  ■  sell  CI, 

with  the  spirit  of  truth,  unity, 
and  concord :  And  grant  that  all  those  who  do 
confess  Thy  holy  Name  may  agree  in  the  truth  of 
Thy  holy  Word,  and  live  in  unity  and  godly  love. 
We  beseech  Thee  also,  so  to  direct  and  dis- 
pose the  hearts  of  all  Christian  Rulers,  that  they 
may  truly  and  impartially  administer  justice,  to 
the  punishment  of  wickedness  and  vice,  and  to 
the  maintenance  of  Thy  true  religion,  and  virtue. 
Give  grace,  O  heavenly  Father,  to  all  Bishops 
and  other  Ministers,  that  they  may,  both  by  their 
life  and  doctrine,  set  forth  Thy  true  and  lively 
Word,  and  rightly  and  duly  administer  Thy  holy 
Sacraments.  And  to  all  Thy  People  give  Thy 
heavenly  grace  ;  and  especially  to  this  congrega- 
tion here  present ;  that,  with  meek  heart  and 
due  reverence,  they  may  hear,  and  receive  Thy 
holy  Word  ;  truly  serving  Thee  in  holiness  and 
righteousness  all  the  days  of  their  life.  And  we 
most  humbly  beseech  Thee,  of  Thy  goodness,  O 
Lord,  to  comfort  and  succour  all  those  who,  in 


Il6    THB  ORDER  OF  HOI,Y  COMMUNION 

this  transitory  life,  are  in  trouble,  sorrow,  need, 
sickness,  or  any  other  adversity.  And  we  also 
bless  Thy  holy  Name  for  all  Thy  servants  de- 
parted this  life  in  Thy  faith  and  fear ;  beseech- 
ing Thee  to  give  us  grace  so  to  follow  their  good 
examples,  that  with  them  we  may  be  partakers 
of  Thy  heavenly  kingdom.  Grant  this,  O 
Father,  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake,  our  only 
Mediator  and  Advocate.     Amen. 

SHORT   EXHORTATION. 

YE  who  do  truly  and  earnestly  repent  you  of 
your  sins,  and  are  in  love  and  charity  with 
your  neighbours,  and  intend  to  lead  a  new  life, 
following  the  commandments  of  God,  and 
walking  from  henceforth  in  His  holy  ways ; 
Draw  near  with  faith,  and  take  this  holy  Sacra- 
ment to  your  comfort ;  and  make  your  humble 
confession  to  Almighty  God,  devoutly  kneeling. 

THE    GENERAL   CONFESSION. 

ALMIGHTY  God,  Father  of  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ,  Maker  of  all  things.  Judge 
of  all  men  ;  We  acknowledge  and  bewail  our 
manifold  sins  and  wickedness.  Which  we,  from 
time  to  time,  most  grievously  have  committed, 
By  thought,  word,  and  deed,  Against  Thy  Divine 
Majesty,  Provoking  most  justly  Thy  wrath  and 
indignation  against  us.     We  do  earnestly  repent. 


THE  ORDER   OE  HOI.Y  COMMUNION    II7 

And  are  heartily  sorry  for  these  our  misdoings  ; 
The  remembrance  of  them  is  grievous  unto  us  ; 
The  burden  of  them  is  intolerable.  Have  mercy 
upon  us,  Have  mercy  upon  us,  most  merciful 
Father  ;  For  Thy  Son  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ's 
sake,  Forgive  us  all  that  is  past ;  And  grant  that 
we  may  ever  hereafter  Serve  and  please  Thee 
In  newness  of  life,  To  the  honour  and  glory  of 
Thy  Name  ;  Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

the  absolution. 

ALMIGHTY  God,  our  heavenly  Father, 
Who  of  His  great  mercy  hath  promised 
forgiveness  of  sins  to  all  those  who  with  hearty 
repentance  and  true  faith  turn  unto  Him  ;  Have 
mercy  upon  you  ;  pardon  and  deliver  you  from 
all  your  sins ;  confirm  and  strengthen  you  in 
all  goodness  ;  and  bring  you  to  everlasting  life  ; 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

THE    comfortable   WORDS. 

Hear  what  comfortable  words  our  Saviour 
Christ  saith  unto  all  who  truly  turn  to  Him. 

COME  unto  Me,  all  ye  that  travail  and  are 
heavy  laden,  and  I  will  refresh  you.     S. 
Matthew  xi.  28. 

So  God  loved  the  world,  that  He  gave  His  only- 
begotton  Son,  to  the  end  that  all  that  believe  in 


Il8    THE  ORDER  OF  HOI,Y  COMMUNION 

Him  should  not  perish,  but  have  everlasting  life. 
S.  yohn  iii.  i6. 

Hear  also  what  Saint  Paul  saith. 

This  is  a  true  saying,  and  worthy  of  all  men 
to  be  received.  That  Christ  Jesus  came  into  the 
world  to  save  sinners,      i  Timothy  i.  15. 

Hear  also  what  Saint  John  saith. 

If  any  man  sin,  we  have  an  Advocate  with  the 
Father,  Jesus  Christ  the  Righteous;  and  He  is 
the  Propitiation  for  our  sins,     i  S.  John  ii.  1-2. 

THE    SURSUM    CORDA. 

Priest.      Lift  up  your  hearts. 

Answer.  We  lift  them  up  unto  the  Lord. 

Priest.      Let   us   give    thanks   unto    our  Lord 

God. 
Answer.  It  is  meet  and  right  so  to  do. 

the  preface. 

IT  is  very  meet,  right,  and  our 
bounden      duty,     that     we        *  These  words 

should  at  all    times,  and  in  all  [H°^y  Father] 

,  •         1        1  ^  /-^  must  be  omitted 

places,  ffive  thanks  unto  thee,  O  t-  •  %    c 

r  '  »  ^  on   Irinity-bun- 

LoRD,    [*Holy  Father,]  A1-    day. 
mighty.  Everlasting  God. 
i^Here  follows  Special  Preface.,  if  any  ;  see  later.) 

Therefore  with  Angels  and  Archangels,  and 
with  all  the  company  of  heaven,  we  laud  and 


THE  ORDKR  OF   HOL,Y   COMMUNION    II9 

magnify  Thy  glorious  Name  ;  evermore  praising 
Thee,  and  saying, 

THE    SANCTUS. 

HOLY,  HOLY,  HOLY,  Lord      '^  Priesi   and 
God  of  hosts,  Heaven  and  earth   People. 
are  full  of  Thy  Glory  ;  Glory  be  to  Thee,  O  Lord 
Most  High.     Amen. 

Upon  Christmas-day,  atid  seven  days  nfte}'. 

BECAUSE  Thou  didst  give  Jesus  Christ, 
Thine  only  Son,  to  be  born  as  at  this  time 
for  us ;  Who,  by  the  operation  of  the  Holy 
Ghost,  was  made  very  Man,  of  the  substance  of 
the  Virgin  Mary,  His  mother  ;  and  that  without 
spot  of  sin,  to  make  us  clean  from  all  sin. 
Therefore  with  Angels,  etc. 

Upon  Easter-day,  atid  seven  days  after. 

BUT  chiefly  are  we  bound  to  praise  Thee  for 
the  glorious  Resurrection  of  Thy  Son 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord;  for  He  is  the  very  Pas- 
chal Lamb,  Which  was  offered  for  us,  and  hath 
taken  away  the  sin  of  the  world  ;  Who  by  His 
death  hath  destroyed  death,  and  by  His  rising 
to  life  again  hath  restored  to  us  everlasting  life. 
Therefore  with  Angels,  etc. 


120   THE  ORDER   OE  HOI,Y  COMMUNION 

Upon  Ascension-day,  and  seven  days  after, 

THROUGH  Thy  most  dearly  beloved  Son 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord  ;  Who,  after  His 
most  glorious  Resurrection,  manifestly  appeared 
to  all  His  Apostles,  and  in  their  sight  ascended 
up  into  heaven,  to  prepare  a  place  for  us ;  that 
where  He  is,  thither  we  might  also  ascend,  and 
reign  with  Him  in  glory.  Therefore  with  Angels, 
etc. 

Upon  Whitsunday,  and  six  days  after. 

THROUGH  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord  ;  accord- 
ing to  Whose  most  true  promise,  the  Holy 
Ghost  came  down  as  at  this  time  from  heaven, 
with  a  sudden  great  sound,  as  it  had  been  a 
mighty  wind,  in  the  likeness  of  fiery  tongues, 
lighting  upon  the  Apostles,  to  teach  them,  and  to 
lead  them  to  all  truth  ;  giving  them  both  the  gift 
of  divers  languages,  and  also  boldness  with  fer- 
vent zeal  constantly  to  preach  the  Gospel  unto 
all  nations  ;  whereby  we  have  been  brought  out 
of  darkness  and  error  into  the  clear  light  and 
true  knowledge  of  Thee,  and  of  Thy  Son  Jesus 
Christ.     Therefore  with  Angels,  etc. 

Upon  the  feast  of  Trm\iy  only,  may  be  said, 

WHO  art  one  God,  one  Lord  ;  not  one  only 
Person,  but  three  Persons  in  one  Sub- 
stance.    For  that  which  we  believe  of  the  Glory 


THE  ORDER  OF  HOIyY  COMMUNION    121 

of  the  Father,  the  same  we  believe  of  the  Son, 
and  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  without  any  difference 
or  inequality.     Therefore  with  Angels,  etc. 

H  Or  else  this  may  be  said,  the  words  [Holy  Father] 
being  retained  in  the  introductory  Address. 

FOR  the  precious  Death  and  Merits  of  Thy 
Son  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  and  for  the 
sending  to  us  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  the  Com- 
forter;  Who  are  one  with  Thee  in  Thy  Eternal 
Godhead.     Therefore  with  Angels,  etc. 


prayer   of  humble   access. 

WE  do  not  presume  to  come  to  this  Thy 
Table,  O  merciful  Lord,  trusting  in  our 
own  righteousness,  but  in  Thy  manifold  and  great 
mercies.  We  are  not  worthy  so  much  as  to 
gather  up  the  crumbs  under  Thy  Table.  But  Thou 
art  the  same  Lord,  whose  property  is  always  to 
have  mercy  :  Grant  us  therefore,  gracious  Lord, 
so  to  eat  the  Flesh  of  Thy  dear  Son  Jesus 
Christ,  and  to  drink  His  Blood,  that  our  sin- 
ful bodies  may  be  made  clean  by  His  Body, 
and  our  souls  washed  through  His  most  precious 
Blood,  and  that  we  may  evermore  dwell  in 
Him,  and  He  in  us.     Amen. 


{Here  may  be  said  one  or  all  of  the  following  if  time 
permits:  ) 


122  the;  order  of  hoi,y  communion 


B 


LESSED  is  He  that  cometli  in  the  Name 
of  the  Lord  ;  Hosanna  in  the  Highest. 


LET  all  mortal  flesh  keep  silence  and  stand 
with  fear  and  reverence  and  drive  avi^ay  all 
earthly  thought,  for  the  King  of  Kings  and 
Lord  of  Lords,  Christ,  our  God  cometh  to  be 
given  for  Food  for  the  Faithful,  before  Whose 
Presence  all  Choirs  of  Angels,  with  all  the 
Heavenly  Host,  veil  their  faces  as  they  sing 
their  praises  to  the  Lord  Most  High.  Alle- 
luia !  Alleluia  !  Alleluia  ! ' 

HAVE  mercy  upon  us,  O  God,  according  to 
Thy  great  goodness,  and  send  down  Thy 
Most  Holy  Spirit,  the  Lord  and  Giver  of 
Life,  upon  us  and  upon  the  Gifts  now  lying  before 
Thee,  that  coming  upon  them  with  His  Holy, 
Good  and  Glorious  Presence,  He  may  hallow 
and  make  this  Bread  and  Wine  the  Precious 
Body  and  Blood  of  Jesus  Christ,  that  they 
may  be  to  those  who  receive  them,  for  remission 
of  sins  and  for  the  sanctification  of  souls  and 
bodies  unto  Everlasting  Life,     Amen.  ^ 

PRAYER    OF    consecration. 

ALL  glory  be  to  Thee,  Almighty  GOD,  our 
heavenly  Father,  for  that  Thou,  of  Thy 
tender  mercy,  didst  give  Thine  only  Son  Jesus 
Christ  to  suffer  Death  upon  the  Cross  for  our  re- 
demption ;  Who  made  there  (by  His  one  Oblation 
of  Himself  once  offered)  a  full,  perfect,  and  suf- 
ficient Sacrifice,  Oblation,  and  Satisfaction,  for 

*  Adapted  from  the  Liturgy  of  S.  James. 


I  DIED  ON  THE  CROSS  FOR  THEE  : 
WHAT  HAST  THOU  DONE  FOR  ME?" 


the;   order  OF'  HOI,Y  COMMUNION    1 23 


the  sins  of  the  whole  world  ;  and  did  institute, 
and  in  His  Holy  Gospel  command  us  to  continue, 
a  perpetual  memory  of  that  His 
precious  Death  and  Sacrifice,  un- 
til his  coming  again  ;  For  in  the 
night  in  which  He  was  Betrayed, 
(a)  He  took  Bread  ;  and  when  He 
had  given  thanks,  (d)  He  brake 
it,  and  gave  it  to  His  disciples, 
saying.  Take,  eat,  (c)  this  is  My 
Body,  which  is  given  for  you  ; 
Do  this  in  remembrance  of  Me. 
Likewise,  after  supper,  (d)  He 
took  the  Cup  ;  and  when  He  had 
given  thanks.  He  gave  it  to  them, 
saying.  Drink  ye  all  of  this  ;  for 
{e)  this  is  My  Blood  of  the  New 
Testament,  which  is  shed  for 
you,  and  for  many,  for  the  re- 
mission of  sins  ;  Do  this,  as  oft 
as  ye  shall  drink  it,  in  remem- 
brance of  Me. 


(a)  Here  the 
Priest  is  to  take 
the  Paten  into 
his  hands. 

(b)  And  here 
to  break  the 
Bread. 

(c)  A  nd  here 
to  lay  his  hand 
upon  all  the 
Bread. 

(d)  Here  he 
is  to  take  the 
Cup  into  his 
hands. 

(e)  And  here 
he  is  to  lay 
his  hand  upon 
every  vessel  in 
which  there  is 
any  Wine  to  be 
Consecrated. 


The  Oblation. 


WHEREFORE,  O  Lord 
and  heavenly  Father, 
according  to  the  institution  of  Thy  dearly  be- 
loved Son  our  Saviour  Jesus  Christ,  we.  Thy 
humble  servants,  do  celebrate  and  make  here  be- 
fore Thy  Divine  Majesty,  with  these  Thy  Holy 


A' 


124    TH^  order  of  HOI.Y  COMMUNION 

Gifts,  which  we  now  offer  unto  Thee,  the  Memor- 
ial Thy  Son  hath  commanded  us  to  make  ;  hav- 
ing in  remembrance  His  blessed  Passion  and 
precious  Death,  His  mighty  Resurrection  and 
glorious  Ascension  ;  rendering  unto  Thee  most 
hearty  thanks  for  the  innumerable  benefits  pro- 
cured unto  us  by  the  same. 

ND    we   most   humbly   be- 

,     „,  -^  .r^      The  Invocation, 

seech   1  hee,    O    merciful 

Father  to  hear  us  ;  and,  of  Thy  almighty  good- 
ness, vouchsafe  to  bless  and  sanctify,  with  Thy 
Word  and  Holy  Spirit,  these  Thy  gifts  and 
creatures  of  bread  and  wine  ;  that  we,  receiving 
them  according  to  Thy  Son  our  Saviour  Jesus 
Christ's  holy  institution,  in  remembrance  of  His 
Death  and  Passion,  may  be  partakers  of  His 
most  blessed  Body  and  Blood. 

AND  we  earnestly  desire  Thy  fatherly  good- 
ness, mercifully  to  accept  this  our  sacrifice 
of  praise  and  thanksgiving ;  most  humbly  beseech- 
ing Thee  to  grant  that,  by  the  Merits  and  Death 
of  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ,  and  through  faith 
in  His  Blood,  we,  and  all  Thy  whole  Church, 
may  obtain  remission  of  our  sins,  and  all  other 
benefits  of  His  Passion,  And  here  we  offer  and 
present  unto  Thee,0  Lord,  ourselves,  our  souls 
and  bodies,  to  be  a  reasonable,  holy,  and  living 
sacrifice  unto  Thee  ;  humbly  beseeching  Thee, 
that  we,  and  all  others  who  shall  be  partakers  of 


the:  ORDIOR  01?   HOI^Y  COMMUNION    1 25 

this  Holy  Communion,  may  worthily  receive  the 
most  precious  Body  and  Blood  of  Thy  Son 
Jesus  Christ,  be  filled  with  Thy  grace  and 
heavenly  benediction,  and  made  one  body  with 
Him,  that  He  may  dwell  in  us,  and  we  in  Him. 
And  although  we  are  unworthy,  through  our 
manifold  sins  to  offer  unto  Thee  any  sacrifice  ; 
yet  we  beseech  Thee  to  accept  this  our  bounden 
duty  and  service  ;  not  weighing  our  merits,  but 
pardoning  our  offences,  through  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord  ;  by  Whom,  and  with  Whom,  in  the 
unity  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  all  honour  and  glory 
be  unto  Thee,  O  Father  Almighty,  world 
without  end.     Amen. 


o 
o 
o 


{Here  may  be  said  the  hymn  :) 

LAMB  of  God,  that  takest  away  the  sins 
of  the  world  :   Have  mercy  upon  us  : 

LAMB  of  God,  that  takest  away  the  sins 
of  the  world  :   Have  mercy  upon  us  : 

LAMB  of  God,  that  takest  away  the  sins 
of  the  world  :   Grant  us  Thy  peace. 

( This  is  a  fitting  time  to  offer  up  special  prayers  and 
to  make  acts  0/ adoration  to  otir  Blessed  LORD  Present 
in  the  Sacrament, 

Before  Communion  may  be  said  the  following  or  else 
some  of  the  devotions  beginning  on  page  141). 

MOST  Blessed   Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus 
Christ,  we  love  Thee,  we  adore  Thee 
and  we  worship  Thee,  Mystically  Pres- 
ent, veiled  beneath  the  forms  of  Bread  and  Wine. 


126    THE  ORDER  OF  HOIvY  COMMUIHON 

O  Lord, Who  givest  life  to  the  soul,  come  to  these 
poor  hearts  of  ours, and  fill  them  with  Thine  heav- 
enly fire,  that  we  may  glow  with  the  warmth  of 
devotion,  the  ardour  of  love,  the  fervour  of  zeal. 
Direct  and  rule  us  evermore  in  thought  and 
word  and  deed,  and  never  suffer  us  to  be  separ- 
ated again  from  Thee,  Who  with  the  Father 
and  the  Holy  Ghost  art  to  be  worshipped 
and  glorified  world  without  end.     Amen. 


L 


ORD,  I  am  not  worthy  that  Thou  shouldst 
come  under  my  roof,  but  speak  the  word 
only  and  my  soul  shall  be  healed. 


OLORD  Jesus,  I  come  to  Thee,  as  Thou 
hast  commanded.     O  fill  me  with  Thy 
gracious  Presence,  that  I  may  be  cleansed 
from  all  my  sins  and  granted  the  pledge  of  ever- 
lasting life. 

O  SAVIOUR  of  the  world.  Who  by  Thy  Cross 
and  Precious  Blood  hast  redeemed  us, 
save  us  and  help  us,  we  humbly  beseech 
Thee,  O  Lord. 


words    of   administration   of  the  sacra- 
ment of  our  lord's  body. 

THE  Body  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  which 
was  given  for  thee,  preserve  thy  body  and 
soul  unto  everlasting  life.  Take  and  eat  this  in 
remembrance  that  Christ  diedforthee,  and  feed 
on  Him  in  thy  heart  by  faith,  with  thanksgiving. 

^Mere  may  be  said  on  receiving  the  LORD'S  BODY  :) 


THK  order  Olf  HOIyY  COMMUNION    1 27 

O  BREAD  of  Life  that  comest  down  from 
Heaven  and  givest  life  to  the  world,  bless 
me  I  beseech  Thee,  and  be  to  me  the  way 
to  Eternal  Salvation. 

(Then  may  be  said :) 

WHAT  reward  shall  I  give  to  the  Lord  for 
all  the  benefits  that  He  hath  given  unto 
me.     I  will  receive  the  Cup  of  Salvation 
and  call  upon  the  Name  of  the  Lord. 


WORDS     OF    ADMINISTRATION     OF    THE    SACRA- 
MENT   OF    OUR    lord's   BLOOD. 

THE  Blood  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  which 
was  shed  for  thee,  preserve  thy  body  and 
soul  unto  everlasting  life.  Drink  this  in  remem- 
brance that  Christ's  Blood  was  shed  for  thee, 
and  be  thankful. 

{Here  may  be  said  on  receivingour  LORD'S  BLOOD  :) 


w 


ASH  me,  my  Saviour,  in  Thy  Precious 
Blood  and  cleanse  me  from  all  un- 
righteousness. 

(  Then  may  be  said  on  returning  to  seat  .) 


PRAISE  the  Lord,  O  my  soul  and  all  that 
is  within   me   praise    His    Holy    Name. 
Thanks  be  to  God  for  His  most  wonderful 
Gift. 

{If  time  permits  here  may  be  said  some  of  the  Devo- 
tions beginning  on  page  33.) 


128    THE  ORDER   OF  HOIvY  COMMUNION 

THE   lord's    prayer. 

OUR  Father,  Who  art  in  heaven,  Hallowed 
be  Thy  Name.  Thy  kingdom  come.  Thy 
will  be  done  on  earth.  As  it  is  in  heaven.  Give 
us  this  day  our  daily  bread.  And  forgive  us  our 
trespasses.  As  we  forgive  those  who  trespass 
against  us.  And  lead  us  not  into  temptation  ; 
But  deliver  us  from  evil :  For  Thine  is  the  king- 
dom, and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  for  ever  and 
ever.     Amen. 

THANKSGIVING. 

ALMIGHTY  and  everliving  God,  we  most 
heartily  thank  Thee,  for  that  Thou  dost 
vouchsafe  to  feed  us  who  have  duly  received  these 
holy  Mysteries,  with  the  spiritual  food  of  the 
most  precious  Body  and  Blood  of  Thy  Son  our 
Saviour  Jesus  Christ;  anddost  assure  us  thereby 
of  Thy  favour  and  goodness  towards  us  :  and  that 
we  are  very  members  incorporate  in  the  mystical 
body  of  Thy  Son,  which  is  the  blessed  company 
of  all  faithful  people ;  and  are  also  heirs  through 
hope  of  Thy  everlasting  kingdom,  by  the  Merits 
of  the  most  precious  Death  and  Passion  of  Thy 
dear  Son.  And  we  most  humbly  beseech  Thee, 
O  heavenly  Father,  so  to  assist  us  with  Thy 
grace,  that  we  may  continue  in  that  holy  fellow- 
ship, and  do  all  such  good  works  as  Thou  hast 
prepared    for    us    to    walk   in  ;  through  Jesus 


THE   ORDER   OF   HOIyY   COMMUNION     1 29 

Christ  our  Lord,  to  Whom,  with  Thee  and  the 
Holy  Ghost,  be  all  honour  and  glory,  world 
without  end.     Amen. 

THE    GLORIA    IN    EXCELSIS. 

GLORY  be  to  God  on  high,  and  on  earth 
peace,  good  will  towards  men.  We 
praise  Thee,  we  bless  Thee,  we  worship  Thee, 
we  glorify  Thee,  we  give  thanks  to  Thee  for 
Thy  great  Glory,  O  Lord  God,  heavenly  King, 
God  the  Father  Almighty. 

O  Lord,  the  only-begotten  Son,  Jesus  Christ; 
O  Lord  God,  Lamb  of  God,  vSon  of  the  Father, 
that  takest  away  the  sins  of  the  world,  have 
mercy  upon  us.  Thou  that  takest  away  the  sins 
of  the  world,  have  mercy  upon  us.  Thou  that 
takest  away  the  sins  of  the  world,  receive  our 
prayer.  Thou  that  sittest  at  the  right  hand  of 
God  the  Father,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

For  Thou  only  art  holy  ;  Thou  only  art  the 
Lord  ;  Thou  only,  O  Christ,  with  the  Holy 
Ghost,  art  most  high  in  the  glory  of  God  the 
Father.     Af/ien. 

the  blessing. 

THE  Peace  of  God,  which  passeth  all  under- 
standing, keep  your  hearts  and  minds  in 
the  knowledge  and  love  of  God,  and  of  His  Son 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord  :  And  the  Blessing  of 


130    THE  ORDER   Oi?  HOI.Y   COMMUNION 

God  Almighty  »i«  the  Father,  the  Son,  and  the 
Holy  Ghost,  be  amongst  you,  and  remain  with 
you  always.     Amen. 

III. 
THANKSGIVING  AFTER  COMMUNION. 

( 1/ preferredy  one  may  use  the  A  ncient  Form  on  page 
^35 1  0^  if  one  attends  two  Celebrations^  he  may  use  this 
after  Comtnunicating  and  the  other  •when  present  for 
Worship.  It  is  suggested  that  one's  own  original  devo- 
tions also  be  invariably  used.) 

OMOST  Blessed  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesu 
Christ,  we  love  Thee,  we  adore  Thee, 
we  worship  Thee  and  we  thank  Thee  for 
these  the  Holy  Mysteries  of  Thy  Body  and 
Blood.  Grant  us  grace  that  we  may  go  forth  in 
Thy  strength  and  live  as  befitteth  those  to  whom 
Thou  hast  deigned  to  come.  Let  us  ever  re- 
member the  Sacred  Gifts  which  we  have  received 
and  in  joy  or  sorrow,  adversity  or  prosperity,  let 
us  recollect  Thine  Abiding  Presence.  Let  us  never 
defile  the  temple  wherein  Thou  dost  abide.  Keep 
us  pure  in  thought  and  word  and  deed,  and  grant 
us  so  to  follow  Thee  in  this  world,  that  in  the 
world  to  come  we  may  see  Thee  Face  to  Face 
and  dwell  with  Thee  in  Thine  Heavenly  Kingdom 
unto  the  ages  of  ages.     Amen. 

OLORD,  Who  under  a  wonderful  Sacrament 
has  left  us  a  Memorial  of  Thy  Passion  ; 
Grant  us,  we  beseech  Thee,  so  to  rever- 
ence the  Sacred    Mysteries  of    Thy  Body  and 
Blood  that  we  may  perpetually  find  in  ourselves 
the  fruit  of   Thy  Redemption  ;  Who  livest  and 


THANKSGIVING  AFTER   COMMUNION   131 

reignest  with  the  Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost, 
One  God,  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen.^ 

PARDON,  O  Father,  the  imperfections  of 
our  prayers  and  praises,  our  wandering 
thoughts  and  lack  of  devotion.  Look  not 
upon  us,  but  upon  the  Face  of  Thine  Anointed 
and  see  us  only  as  we  are  seen  in  Him.  For  His 
Sake,  accept  us,  penitents  at  the  Throne  of  Grace, 
and  grant  that  what  we  have  said  with  our  lips, 
we  may  believe  in  our  hearts  and  practice  in 
our  lives,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

IN  the  Peace  of  Christ  let  us  depart. 
In  the  Peace  of  Christ  let  us  sing.^ 

FROM  Glory  to  Glory  let  us  go  forth,  hymn- 
ing in  our  hearts  to  Thee,  the  Saviour  of 
our  souls.      Glory  be  to  the  Father,  and 
to  the  Son,  and  to  the  Holy  Ghost.    We  praise 
Thee  the  Saviour  of  our  Souls. ^ 

FROM  Strength  to  Strength  advancing,  we 
who  have  accomplished  the  Divine  Minis- 
tration in  Thy  Temple,  now  pray  unto 
Thee,  O  God.  Vouchsafe  to  us  Thy  Mercy, 
guide  our  feet  aright,  root  us  firmly  in  Thy  love 
and  at  last,  count  us  worthy  of  Thine  Heavenly 
Kingdom,  through  the  Merits  and  Mediation 
of  Thy  Son,  to  Whom  with  Thee  and  the  Holy 
Ghost  be  Glory,  Honour  and  Power  unto  the 
Ages  of  Ages. 2 


L 


ET  us  go  forth  in  peace 

In  the  Name  of  the  Lord.     Amen.' 


^  Adapted  fro-m  Old  Sartcin  Rite. 

'  Slightly  adapted frotn  the  Liturgy  of  S.  James. 


132  the;  order  of  hoIvY  communion 

IV. 
A  SHORT  THANKSGIVING 

(  To  be  said  on  the  evening  following  the  morning  when 
one  communicates^ 

T  N   the   Name  ►!«  of  the  Father   and  of  the 
I      Son  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 


L 


ET  us  give  thanks  unto  our  Lord  God  and 
praise  Him  for  all  His  mercies. 


O"  MOST  Gracious  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus 
Christ,  we  give  Thee  hearty  thanks  that 
Thou  hast  been  pleased  to  feed  us  this 
day  with  the  Most  Comfortable  Sacrament  of 
Thy  Body  and  Blood.  We  praise  Thee  and 
bless  Thee  for  all  Thy  Goodness  to  us  and  to 
all  men,  and  pray  Thee  that  we  may  have  re- 
ceived these  Holy  Mysteries  to  Thine  Honour 
and  Glory,  to  our  strength  and  salvation,  and 
not  to  our  condemnation  and  punishment.  And 
we  beseech  Thee,  bless  the  labours  of  Thy 
faithful  people  and  prosper  all  that  they  take 
in  hand,  making  us  perfect  in  every  good  work  to 
do  Thy  Will,  working  in  us  that  which  is  well 
pleasing  in  Thy  Sight.  Grant  us  thankful  hearts 
for  all  Thy  Blessings  and  give  us  grace  henceforth 
to  live  a  life  hid  with  Thee  in  GoD,  rejoicing 
only  at  that  which  brings  us  closer  to  Thee  and 
grieving  only  at  that  which  draws  us  away 
from  Thee.  Mercifully  pardon  and  forgive 
those  who  have  neglected  this  Holy  Sacrament 
and  spiritually  strengthen  and  refresh  those  who 
were  unable  to  come  to  Thine  Altar.  Guard  us 
in  this  world  from  all  dangers  which  may  assault 
the  body  or  the  soul,  and  through  Thy    mercy 


A   SHORT   THANKSGIVING  I33 

O  Lord,  grant  us,  in  the  world  to  come,  Life 
Everlasting.     Amen. 


o 

L 


UR  Father,  Who  art  in  Heaven,  etc. 


ORD,  Thou  hast  been  very  gracious  to  me 
this  day  ;  I  will  give  Thee  thanks  with  my 
whole  heart. 


Psalm  ciii.  1-5,  20-22. 

PRAISE  the  Lord,  O  my  soul ;  and  all  that 
is  within  me  praise  His  Holy  Name. 
Praise  the  Lord,  O  my  soul,  and  forget 
not  all  His  benefits  : 

Who  forgiveth  all  thy  sin,  and  healeth  all 
thine  infirmities  : 

Who  saveth  thy  life  from  destruction,  and 
crowneth  thee  with  mercy  and  loving-kindness  : 

Who  satisfieth  thy  mouth  with  good  things, 
making  thee  young  and  lusty  as  an  eagle. 

O  praise  the  Lord,  ye  Angels  of  His  ;  ye  that 
excel  in  strength,  ye  that  fulfil  His  command- 
ment, and  hearken  unto  the  voice  of  His  words. 

O  praise  the  Lord,  all  ye  His  hosts  ;  ye  ser- 
vants of  His  that  do  His  pleasure. 

O  speak  good  of  the  Lord,  all  ye  works  of 
His,  in  all  places  of  His  dominion  :  praise  thou 
the  Lord,  O  my  soul. 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  etc. 

Psalm  cxiii.  1-7. 

PRAISE  the  Lord,  ye  servants  :  O  praise  the 
Name  of  the  Lord. 

Blessed  be   the   Name   of  the   Lord  : 
from  this  time  forth  for  evermore. 


134    TH^  ORDER   OK   HOI,Y   COMMUNION 

The  Lord's  Name  is  praised  :  from  the 
rising  up  of  the  sun  unto  the  going  down  of  the 
same. 

The  Lord  is  high  above  all  heathen  :  and 
His  glory  above  the  heavens. 

Who  is  like  unto  the  Lord  our  God,  that 
hath  His  dwelling  so  high :  and  yet  humbleth 
Himself  to  behold  the  things  that  are  in  heaven 
and  earth  ! 

He  taketh  up  the  simple  out  of  the  dust : 
and  lifteth  the  poor  oiit  of  the  mire  ; 

That  He  may  set  him  with  the  princes  :  even 
with  the  princes  of  His  people. 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  etc. 

THE  Lord  bless  ►!*  us  and  keep  us.  The  Lord 
make  His  Face  to  shine  upon  us  and  be 
gracious  unto  us.     The  Lord  lift  up  the 
Light  of  His  Countenance  upon  us,  and  give  us 
peace  both  now  and  evermore.     Amen. 


THANKSGIVING  AFTER  HOLY 
COMMUNION 


{A  dapted  from  the  A  ticient  English  Use  of  Old  Sarum.) 

Antiphon.  Let  us  sing  the  Song  of  the  Three 
Children  ;  which  they  sang  as  they  blessed  the 
Lord  in  the  furnace  of  fire. 

Canticle. 
Benedicite,  omnia  Opera. 

OALL  ye  works  of  the  Lord,  bless  ye  the 
I>ORD  :  praise  Him,  and  magnify  Him  for 
ever. 

O  ye  Angels  of  the  Lord,  bless  ye  the  Lord  : 
praise  Him,  and  magnify  Him  for  ever. 

O  ye  Children  of  Men,  bless  ye  the  Lord: 
praise  Him,  and  magnify  Him  for  ever. 

O  let  Israel  bless  the  Lord  :  praise  Him,  and 
magnify  Him  for  ever. 

O  ye  Priests  of  the  Lord,  bless  ye  the  Lord  : 
praise  Him,  and  magnify  Him  for  ever. 

O  ye  Servants  of  the  Lord,  bless  ye  the 
Lord  :  praise  Him,  and  magnify  Him  for  ever. 

O  ye  Spirits  and  Souls  of  the  Righteous, 
bless  ye  the  Lord  :  praise  Him,  and  magnify 
Him  for  ever. 

135 


136     THANKSGIVING  AFTER   COMMUNION 

O  ye  holy  and  humble  Men  of  heart,  bless  ye 
the  Lord  :  praise  Him,  and  magnify  Him  for 
ever, 

O  Ananias,  Azarias,  and  Misael,  bless  ye  the 
Lord  :  praise  Him,  and  magnify  Him  for  ever. 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  etc. 

Psalm  cl.  Landate  Doinimim. 

O  PRAISE  God  in  His  holiness  :  praise  Him 
in  the  firmament  of  His  power. 

Praise  Him  in   His  noble  acts  :  praise 
Him  according  to  His  excellent  greatness. 

Praise  Him  in  the  sound  of  the  trumpet :  praise 
Him  upon  the  lute  and  harp. 

Praise  Him  in  the  cymbals  and  dances : 
praise  Him  upon  the  strings  and  pipe. 

Praise  Him  upon  the  well-tuned  cymbals : 
praise  Him  upon  the  loud  cymbals. 

Let  every  thing  that  hath  breath  praise  the 
Lord. 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  etc. 

The  Song  of  Symeon, 
Nunc  Dimittis. 

LORD,  now  lettest  Thou  Thy  servant  depart 
in  peace,  according  to  Thy  word. 

For  mine  eyes  have  seen  Thy  salvation, 
Which  Thou  hast  prepared  before  the  face  of 
all  people. 

To  be  a  light  to  lighten  the  Gentile» ;  and  to 
be  the  glory  of  Thy  people  Israel. 
Glory  be  to  the  Father,  etc, 

Antiphon.  Let  us  sing  the  Song  of  the  Three 
Children  ;  which  they  sang  as  they  blessed  the 
Lord  in  the  furnace  of  fire. 


THANKSGIVING   AFTER   COMMUNION      I37 


L 


ORD,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 


OUR  Father,  Who  art  in  heaven,  Hal- 
lowed be  Thy  Name.  Thy  kingdom 
come.  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth,  As  it 
is  in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread. 
And  forgive  us  our  trespasses.  As  we  forgive 
those  that  trespass  against  us.  And  lead  us  not 
into  temptation :  But  deliver  us  from  evil.   Amen. 

Let  us  bless  God,  the  Father,  the  Son,  and  the 
Holy  Ghost. 
Let  us  praise  and  exalt  Him  above  all  for  ever. 
Blessed  art  Thou,  O  Lord  in  the  highest. 

And  zvorthy  to  be  praised  and  glorious  for  ever. 
The  Almighty  and  Merciful  God  bless  and  keep 

us.     Amen. 
Enter  not  into  judgment  with  Thy  servant,  O 
Lord. 
For    in    Thy    Sight  shall  no   man    living  be 
justified. 
Turn  us  again,  O  Lord  God  of  Hosts. 

Shozu  the  light  of  Thy  Countenance  and  we 
shall  be  whole. 
O  Lord,  hear  my  prayer. 

And  let  my  cry  come  unto  Thee. 
The  Lord  be  with  you  : 
And  ivith  Thy  Spirit. 

Let  us  pray. 

OGOD,  Who  for  the  Three  Children  didst 
cool  the  flames  of  fire,  mercifully  grant 
that  the  flame  of  sin  may  not  consume  us 
Thy  servants. 


138     THANKSGIVING  AFTER  COMMUNION 

Enkindle,  O  Lord,  with  the  fire  of  Thy  Holy 
Spirit,  our  reins  and  our  hearts,  that  we  may 
serve  Thee  with  chaste  bodies  and  please  Thee 
with  pure  minds. 

Prevent  us,  O  Lord,  in  all  our  doings  with 
Thy  most  gracious  favour,  and  further  us  with 
Thy  continual  help  :  that  in  all  our  works  begun, 
continued,  and  ended  in  Thee,  we  may  glorify 
Thy  Holy  Name,  and  finally  by  Thy  mercy 
obtain  everlasting  life. 

Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  Wholiveth 
and  reigneth  with  Thee,  in  the  Unity  of  the 
same  Spirit,  ever  One  God,  world  without  end. 
Amen. 

(//"  desiredy  the  Thanksgiving  may  end  here^  or  else 
the  following  may  be  added.') 

Omnipotens,  Sempiterne  Dens. 

ALMIGHTY  and  Everlasting  God,  Preserver 
of  Souls  and  Redeemer  of  the  world, 
most  graciously  regard  me  Thy  servant 
prostrate  before  Thy  Majesty  ;  and  this  Sacrifice 
which  in  honour  of  Thy  Name  we  have  pre- 
sented before  Thee,  for  the  Salvation  of  the 
faithful,  whether  living  or  departed  and  also  for 
our  sins  and  offences  do  Thou  most  mercifully 
regard.  Take  away  from  me  Thy  wrath,  grant 
me  Thy  grace  and  mercy,  open  to  me  the  door  of 
Paradise,  mightily  rescue  me  from  all  evils  and 
forgive  whatever  sin  of  my  own  guilt  I  have 
committed.  And  make  me  so  to  persevere  in 
Thy  Commandments  in  this  world,  that  I  may 
be  made  worthy  to  be  united  to  the  flock  of  the 
Elect,  through  Thy  Bounty,  O,  my  GoD,  Whose 
Blessed  Name  and  Honour  and  Kingdom  re- 
maineth  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 


THANKSGIVING  AFTER  COMMUNION      139 

Omnipotens,  Sempiterne  Deus. 

ALMIGHTY  and  Everlasting  God,  Jesu 
Christ  my  Lord,  be  Thou  merciful  to 
my  sins,  through  the  reception  of  Thy 
Body  and  Blood.  For  Thou,  O  Lord,  hast  said 
"Whoso  eateth  My  Flesh  and  drinketh  My 
Blood  dwelleth  in  Me  and  I  in  Him."  Where- 
fore I  humbly  beseech  Thee,  that  Thou  wouldst 
create  in  me  a  pure  heart,  and  renew  a  right  spirit 
within  me  ;  that  Thou  wouldst  deign  to  stablish 
me  with  Thy  Firm  Spirit ;  and  so  deliver  me 
from  the  snares  of  the  devil  and  from  all  my 
sins,  that  I  may  attain  to  be  a  partaker  of  Thine 
heavenly  joys  ;  Who  livest  and  reignest  with  the 
Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  one  God,  for 
ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

WE  yield  Thee  thanks,  O  Lord,  Holy 
Father,  Almighty,  Everlasting  God, 
Who  not  for  any  merit  of  ours,  but  of 
Thy  mercy  only,  hast  been  pleased  to  feed  us 
sinners.  Thine  unworthy  servants,  with  the  Pre- 
cious Body  and  Blood  of  Thy  Son,  our  Lord, 
Jesus  Christ.  And  we  beseech  Thee,  that  this 
Holy  Communion  may  not  accuse  us  unto  con- 
demnation but  may  be  to  us  pardon  and  salva- 
tion. Let  it  be  to  us  an  armour  of  faith  and  a 
shield  of  good  resolution.  Let  it  be  to  us  the 
riddance  of  all  vices,  the  killing  of  all  evil  de- 
sires and  longings,  and  the  increase  of  love  and 
patience,  of  humility  and  obedience,  and  of  all 
virtues  ;  a  firm  defence  against  al!  enemies  visible 
and  invisible,  a  constraining  power  to  purity  and 
holiness.  Let  it  make  us  always  cling  closely  to 
Thee,  the  One,  True  and  Only  God,  and  end  our 
earthly  days  in  peace.     And  we  pray  Thee  to 


I40    Thanksgiving  after  communion 

bring  us  to  that  Heavenly  Banquet,  where  Thou 
with  Thy  Son  and  the  Holy  Ghost  art  to  Thy 
Saints  true  light,  everlasting  joy  and  perfect 
happiness.     Amen. 

MOREOVER  we  beseech  Thee,  O  Lord, 
that  this  Holy  Communion  may  be  unto 
us  a  guide  and  provision  for  our  journey 
unto  the  haven  of  everlasting  Salvation.  May 
it  be  to  us  comfort  in  sorrow,  strength  in  trial, 
patience  in  difficulty,  medicine  in  sickness,  de- 
light in  prosperity  and  love  in  all  things.  By 
these  most  Holy  Mysteries,  which  we  have  re- 
ceived, grant  us  right  faith,  firm  hope  and  per- 
fect charity,  purification  of  desire,  gladness  of 
mind,  ardent  love  of  Thee  and  a  due  re- 
membrance of  the  Passion  of  Thy  Beloved  Son, 
with  grace  to  keep  our  lives  full  of  faith  and  vir- 
tue. And  in  the  hour  of  our  departure  grant 
that  we  may  receive  this  great  Mystery  with 
true  faith,  sure  hope  and  sincere  charity  unto 
Everlasting  Life.     Amen. 


ADDITIONAL  DEVOTIONS. 

{Mainly  adaptations  of  Ancient  Liturgies.) 


{May  be  used  he/ore  Communion .') 

OLORD,  we  Thy  servants  bow  down  before 
Thy  Holy  Altar,  waiting  for  the  rich  mer- 
cies which  are  from  Thee.  Send  down 
upon  us  richly  we  beseech  Thee,  Thy  grace  and 
benediction,  and  sanctify  our  souls  and  minds 
and  bodies  that  we  may  worthily  receive  these 
Holy  Mysteries,  unto  forgiveness  of  sins  and 
everlasting  life.  For  Thou,  O  GoD,  with  Thine 
Only  Begotten  Son  and  Thy  Most  Holy  Spirit 
art  to  be  worshipped  and  glorified  now  and  for 
ever.     Amen.  ' 

O  BLESSED  Master,  Lord  and  God,  reject 
me  not  utterly,  though  stained  with  many 
sins.  Behold,  I  come  to  Thy  Divine  and 
Heavenly  Mysteries,  not  as  being  worthy  but 
trusting  in  Thy  great  goodness.  O  God,  be 
merciful  to  me  a  sinner  and  though  I  have  sinned 
against  Heaven  and  before  Thee,  and  am  not 
worthy  to  raise  my  eyes  to  Thy  Holy  Table,  do 
Thou  prepare  and  cleanse  me  for  this  Thy  ser- 
vice, through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  Who  with 
Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost  art  blessed  now  and 
unto  the  ages  of  ages.     Amen.  ' 

*  Liturgy  of  S.  James,  considerably  adapted. 

141 


142  ADDlTlONAIv  DEVOTIONS 

OLORD,  as  we  receive  Thy  Precious  Body 
and  Blood,  send  forth  Thine  unseen  Hand 
which  is  full  of  blessings  and  bountifully 
bless  us  all.  Have  mercy  upon  us  and  strengthen 
us  by  Thy  Divine  Power.  Take  away  from  us 
the  sinful  working  of  all  fleshly  lusts.  Drive 
from  before  our  eyes  the  encompassing  gloom 
of  sin  and  unite  us  with  the  blessed  company  of 
all  faithful  people,  who  have  been  well  pleasing 
unto  Thee.  P'or  through  Thee  and  with  Thee 
and  in  Thee,  with  the  Father  and  the  Holy 
Ghost  be  all  praise,  honour,  might,  majesty, 
dominion  and  power,  now  and  for  ever,  unto 
the  ages  of  ages.     Amen.^ 

OLORD,  with  this  Holy  Sacrifice  we  offer  up 
our  prayers  and  supplications  unto  Thee, 
asking  for  ourselves  the  peace  from  above, 
the  Love  of  God,  the  Salvation  of  our  Souls  ;  for 
others  that  Thou  wouldst  be  pleased  to  remem- 
ber the  poor,  to  help  the  suffering,  to  heal  the 
sick,  to  comfort  the  broken-hearted,  to  watch 
over  the  traveller,  to  give  peace  to  the  Church, 
to  grant  prosperity  to  the  world,  bringing 
all  people  to  love  and  confess  Thee,  the  One 
and  Only  God.  And  especially  do  we  pray  for 
the  heavenly  and  adorable  gifts  which  are  from 
Thee,  and  for  the  salvation  of  Thy  priest  who 
stands  to  offer  them  by  Thy  Divine  Command. 
O  Lord  God,  grant  that  our  Oblations,  hallowed 
by  the  Holy  Ghost,  may  be  well  pleasing  unto 
Thee,  and  accept  them,  we  beseech  Thee,  for  the 
forgiveness  of  our  sins,  the  salvation  of  Thy 
people  and  the  repose  of  the  faithful,  that  all  at 
the  Day  of  Judgment  may  find  grace  and  mercy, 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen.'^ 

*  Liturgy  of  S.  Mark,  adapted. 

'  Adapted  from  the  Liturgy  of  S.  James. 


ADDITION AI,  DEVOTIONS  1 43 

OLORD,  Who  blessest  them  that  bless  Thee, 
and  hallowest  them  that  put  their  trust  in 
Thee,  save  Thy  people  and  bless  Thine 
inheritance.  Guard,  we  beseech  Thee,  Thy  Holy 
Church.  Hallow  those  that  love  the  beauty 
of  Thine  House.  Forsake  not  us  who  put  our 
trust  in  Thee.  Give  peace  to  the  world,  to  the 
Church,  to  the  Priesthood,  to  our  Rulers,  and  to 
all  Thy  people  ;  for  every  good  gift  and  every 
perfect  work  is  from  above,  coming  from  Thee, 
the  Father  of  Lights,  to  Whom  we  ascribe,  with 
the  vSoN  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  all  glory,  thanks- 
giving and  worship  now  and  ever,  unto  the  ages 
of  aces.     Amen.' 


OLORD,  grant  that  this  Holy  Communion 
may  be  to  those  who  shall  receive  it,  for 
the  forgiveness  of  sins,  the  sanctification 
of  souls  and  bodies,  and  the  bringing  forth  of 
the  fruit  of  good  works,  through  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord,  with  Whom  Thou  art  worshipped  and 
glorified  in  the  Unity  of  the  Holy  Ghost  now 
and  forever.     Amen.-' 


UNTO  Thee,  O  Lord  and  Lover  of  Men, 
Ave  commend  our  whole  life  and  hope, 
praying  and  beseeching  Thee  to  grant 
that  we  may  partake  of  Thine  heavenly  Mysteries 
with  a  pure  conscience,  unto  remission  of  sins 
and  pardon  of  transgressions,  unto  communion 
with  Thee  and  inheritance  of  the  Kingdom  of 
Heaven  and  not  unto  judgment  or  condemnation. 
Amen.^ 

^  Adapted  from  the  Liturgy  of  S.  Chrysostom. 

^  Adapted  from  the  Liturgy  of  S.  James. 

^  Adapted  from  the  Liturgy  of  S.  Chrysostom. 


144  ADDITIONAI.  DEVOTIONS 

OLORD,  we  offer  unto  Thee  with  this  Holy 
Sacrifice,  ourselves  and  souls  and  bodies 
for  Thee  to  accept  for  the  sake  of  Thy 
Beloved  Son,  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  Grant 
O  God,  that  hallowed  by  our  union  with  Him,  and 
cleansed  in  His  Precious  Blood,  we  may  be  a 
pure  offering  in  Thy  Sight  and  may  evermore 
give  ourselves  up  in  loving  service  and  holy  obe- 
dience to  Thee,  Who  art  to  be  praised  and  glori- 
fied now  and  forever.     Amen. 

COME,  O  Lord,  in  mercy  to  my  soul  and 
dwell  there  forever.  Give  to  me  Thy- 
self, without  Whom  all  the  world  could 
not  satisfy,  and  with  Whom  is  joy  unspeakable. 
Let  me  seek  Thee  with  the  full  strength  of  my 
being,  with  the  ardent  longing  of  my  soul,  and 
finding  Thee,  let  my  life  show  forth  the  Glory  of 
Thy  Name,  in  the  flowers  of  good  works  and  the 
fragrance  of  holy  living.     Amen. 

BE  Thou  merciful  to  me,  O  Good  Jesus,  and 
grant  unto  me.  Thy  poor  suppliant,  some- 
times at  least  to  feel  in  Holy  Communion 
the  cordial  affection  of  Thy  love,  that  my  faith 
may  grow  stronger,  my  hope  increase,  my  love 
enkindle.  ,  .  O  Most  Holy  and  Loving  Lord, 
Whom  I  now  desire  to  receive  with  devotion. 
Thou  knowest  my  weakness  and  how  often  I  am 
weighed  down,  tempted,  troubled  and  defiled. 
To  Thee  I  come  for  remedy.  To  Thee  I  pray 
for  comfort  and  help.  Behold,  I  stand  before 
Thee,  beseeching  Thy  grace  and  imploring  Thy 
mercy.  O  Cheer  Thy  famishing  suppliant,  en- 
kindle my  coldness  with  the  fire  of  Thy  love, 
enlighten  my  blindness  with  the  brightness  of 
Thy  Presence,  and  raise  my  heart  unto  Thee.  .  .  . 


ADDITIONAI,   DEVOTIONS  I45 

With  the  greatest  devotion  and  burning  love, 
with  all  the  affection  and  fervour  of  my  heart  I 
desire  to  receive  Thee,  O  Lord.  O  Deal  with  me 
in  Thy  mercy  as  Thou  hast  often  dealt  wonder- 
fully with  Thy  saints  of  old,  and  prevent  Thy 
servant  in  the  blessing  of  Thy  love,  that  I  may 
worthily  and  devoutly  approach  and  receive  this 
Glorious  Sacrament.'     Amen. 

OLORD,  we  would  remember  in  our  prayers 
the  Holy  Catholic  Church,  that  Thou 
mayst  graciously  vouchsafe  to  increase  it 
in  faith,  hope  and  charity.  We  would  remember 
the  sick  and  suffering,  the  desolate  and  sorrow- 
ful, the  poor  and  destitute,  that  Thou  mayst 
heal,  comfort  and  relieve  them.  We  would  re- 
member the  souls  of  the  faithful  departed,  that 
they  may  rest  in  peace  where  their  works  do  fol- 
low them.  Mercifully  perform  this,  we  beseech 
Thee,  O  Eternal  and  Almighty  Father,  to 
Whom  we  offer  this  Holy  Sacrifice.     Amen.'^ 

MOST  Blessed  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus 
Christ  the  great  High  Priest,  Who  for  us 
didst  offer  Thyself  upon  the  Cross,  a  pure 
and  spotless  Victim,  and  didst  ordain  this  Holy 
Mystery  and  give  us  Thy  Flesh  to  eat  and  Thy 
Blood  to  drink,  saying,  Do  this  in  remembrance 
of  Me,  I  pray  Thee  to  wash  us  from  our  sins, 
and  teach  us  by  Thy  Holy  Spirit  to  receive  these 
Sacred  Gifts  with  such  reverence  and  honour, 
such  devotion  and  love  as  is  meet  and  fitting. 
Make  us  through  Thy  Grace,  always  to  believe 
and  think  and  speak  of  this  great  Mystery  as  shall 
please  Thee  and  be  good  for  our  souls.     Let  Thy 

^  Freely  adapted  from  Thomas  k  Kempis. 
'  Freely  adapted  from  IMozarabic  Liturgy. 


146  ADDlTlONAIv  DEVOTIONS 

Holy  Spirit  enter  into  our  hearts  and  speak  and 
teach  all  truth.  For  these  Sacred  Mysteries  are 
beyond  man's  understanding.  In  Thy  Mercy 
grant  us  to  receive  this  Holy  Eucharist  with  a 
clean  heart  and  pure  mind.  Drive  away  all  vain, 
evil,  impure  and  unholy  thoughts.  Defend  us 
with  the  loving  and  faithful  protection  of  the 
blessed  angels,  and  keep  us  free  from  the  spirit  of 
pride  and  vanity,  envy  and  bJasphemy,  doubt  and 
distrust  and  fill  us  with  boundless  love  of  Thee. 
Amen.' 

OLORD,  by  this  Most  Sacred  Mystery  of 
Thy  Body  and  Blood,  whereof  in  Thy 
Church  we  are  daily  permitted  to  partake 
and  whereby  we  are  washed  and  sanctified  and 
are  made  sharers  of  the  Divine  Life,  Grant  us  we 
beseech  Thee,  Thy  manifold  gifts  of  Grace  that 
replenished  with  them,  we  may  approach  Thine 
Altar  with  a  good  conscience  and  may  receive 
these  heavenly  sacraments  to  our  health  and  com- 
fort. For  Thou  hast  said  "The  Bread  which 
I  give  is  My  Flesh  for  the  life  of  the  world.  I 
am  the  Living  Bread,  which  came  down  from 
Heaven.  If  any  man  eat  of  this  Bread,  he  shall 
live  forever."  O  Bread  most  sweet,  grant  us  the 
pleasantness  of  Thy  Love.  Heal  us  of  all  weak- 
ness that  we  may  have  joy  in  naught  but  Thee. 
O  Bread  most  fair,  that  ever  refreshest  us  and 
never  failest,  may  we  feed  upon  Thee  and  may 
our  inmost  soul  be  filled  with  Thine  Heavenly 
peace.  May  we  in  our  pilgrimage  so  receive  Thee 
that  we  may  not  faint  upon  our  way,  but  come  in 
safety  to  the  end  of  our  journey.  O  Holy  Bread, 
O  Living  Bread,  O  Adorable  Bread,  that  comest 

*  Freely  adapted   from  Prayers  variously   ascribed   to 
S.  Ambrose  and  S.  Anselm. 


ADDITION AIv   DEVOTIONS  1 47 

down  from  Heaven,  come  unto  us  and  cleanse  us 
from  all  defilement  of  flesh  and  spirit.  Drive 
away  from  us  all  enemies,  and  so  watch  over  us, 
that  we  may  reach  Thine  Heavenly  Kingdom, 
where  no  more  as  now  in  Mysteries  shall  we  see 
Thee,  but  Face  to  face.  Who  with  the  Father 
and  the  Holy  Ghost  art  to  be  worshipped  and 
glorified  unto  the  ages.     Amen.' 

{May  be  said  after  Covttnunton.) 

MAY  the  performance  of  our  bounden  duty 
be  pleasing  unto  Thee,  O  God,  and  grant 
that  this  Holy  Sacrifice  which  we,  though 
unworthy,  have  presented  before  Thy  Divine 
Majesty,  may  be  acceptable  unto  Thee  and  ob- 
tain mercy  for  us  and  for  those  for  whom  we 
pray,  by  Thy  compassion,  Who  livest  and  reignest 
One  God,  world  without  end.     Amen.^ 

OMOST  Merciful  Saviour,  look  with  com- 
passion, we  beseech  Thee,  upon  us  who 
have  received  the  sacred  gifts  of  Thy 
Body  and  Blood.  Bless  the  lips  which  have 
praised  Thee,  the  heart  which  has  loved  Thee, 
the  body  which  has  worshipped  Thee,  the  soul 
which  has  adored  Thee,  that  in  the  world  to 
come,  they  may  be  Thine  forever.     Amen. 

OGOD,  Who  art  Holy  and  Wonderful  and 
Mighty,  Whose  Power  and  Wisdom  have 
no  end,  before  Whom  all  things  bow,  and 
the  heavens  and  earth  declare  Thy  Glory,  grant 
me  to  love  Thee  and  to  worship  Thee  forever  and 
ever.  Guide  me  unto  the  perfect  light,  that 
illumined  by  its  radiance  all  darkness  may  flee 
away.     Let  the  holy  flame  of  Thy  love  so  burn 

*  Largely  borrowed  from  Prayers  variously  ascribed  to 
S.  Ambrose  and  S.  Anselm. 

^  Adapted  from  Old  Sarum  Use. 


148  ADDlTlONAIy  DEVOTIONS 

in  my  heart  that  it  may  be  made  pure  and  holy, 
for  none  but  the  pure  in  heart  can  see  and  know 
and  receive  Thee,  the  King  of  Kings,  our  Lord 
and  God,     Amen.' 

O  CHRIST  our  God,  the  Mystery  of  Thy  Re- 
demption is  accomplished  as  far  as  in  us 
lies.  We  have  had  in  remembrance  Thy 
Death  ;  we  have  seen  Thy  Resurrection ;  we 
have  been  granted  Thy  Divine  Life  ;  we  have 
received  Thine  Heavenly  joys  ;  and  now  we  pray 
Thee  that  hereafter  we  may  be  accounted  worthy 
of  Everlasting  Life,  Through  Thy  Merits  and 
Mediation.     Amen.'^ 

i^The  Hymns  on  pages  152-158  will  be  found  helpful  as 
additional  acts  of  devotion.^ 

ACTS  OF  ADORATION 

{Majf  be  said  as  opportunity  offers') 

O  SAVIOUR  of  the  World,  our  Lord  and 
Master  Jesus  Christ,  Lover  of  Souls,  and 
King  of  Glory,  we  adore  Thee  Present  in 
the  Holy  Sacrament.  Thou  art  the  Only  Be- 
gotten of  the  Father,  All  Holy  and  All  Blessed, 
Infinite  and  Eternal,  dwelling  in  all  the  fulness 
and  splendour  of  the  Light  of  Heaven,  One  with 
God  the  Father  and  God  the  Holy  Ghost, 
Equal  in  Might,  Majesty,  Dominion  and  Power, 
Who  art  to  be  worshipped, honoured  and  glorified 
unto  the  ages  of  ages.  We  adore  Thee,  God  of 
God,  Light  of  Light,  Very  God  of  Very  God,  now 
veiled  in  the  Holy  Sacraments,  even  as  in  Thy 
Divine  Compassion  Thou  didst  veil  Thy  Glory  in 
the  Incarnation,  to  reveal  to  us  the  Love  of  God 
and  to  redeem  mankind  from  sin. 

^  Adapted  from  S.  Augustine. 

*  Adapted  from  Liturgy  of  S.  Basil, 


ACTS  OF   ADORATION  I49 

We  adore  Thee  once  a  Little  Child  on  Thy 
Manger  Throne  of  Bethlehem,  lying  upon  the 
straw  as  an  Helpless  Babe  but  soaring  on  the 
wings  of  the  wind,  as  the  Lord  Almighty.  With 
Mary  and  Joseph,  with  Shepherds  and  Magi  and 
with  all  the  Angels  of  Heaven  we  worship  Thee, 
filling  all  things  with  Thy  Glory.  Those  Tender 
Hands  and  Feet  which  later  were  pierced  by  the 
cruel  nails,  those  Holy  Brows  which  wore  the 
Crown  of  thorns,  those  Sacred  Lips  which  cried 
"I  thirst,"  were  once  caressed  by  the  Virgin 
Mother  as  adoringly  she  gazed  upon  Thee,  the 
Holy  Child. 

We  adore  Thee  as  God  made  Man,  in  Thy 
Holy  Home  at  Nazareth,  in  Thy  Life  of  labour 
and  poverty,  and  we  worship  Thee,  praying  that 
we  may  pattern  ourselves  after  Thy  Holy  Ex- 
ample, following  Thee,  Who  though  the  car- 
penter's Son  art  Lord  of  Hosts  and  Maker  and 
Ruler  of  all  things. 

We  adore  Thee,  Ministering  among  men, 
reviled,  rejected,  persecuted,  mocked,  weary, 
hungry  and  faint,  with  no  place  in  which  to  lay 
Thy  Head,  though  Heaven  and  Earth  were 
made  by  Thee  and  are  full  of  Thy  Glory.  We 
adore  Thee  in  Thy  Words  and  Works,  in  Thy 
Miracles  and  Parables  and  pray  Thee,  that  as 
Thou  didst  cleanse  the  lepers,  so  wash  us  from 
our  sins,  as  Thou  didst  heal  the  sick,  so  cure  us 
of  our  spiritual  ills,  as  Thou  gavest  sight  to  the 
blind,  so  drive  away  our  spiritual  darkness,  as 
Thou  didst  feed  the  multitudes,  so  give  us  the 
Bread  of  Life. 

We  adore  Thee,  O  Man  of  Sorrows,  in  Thine 
Agony  in  the  Garden,  remembering  Thy  Bloody 


150  ACTS   OF  ADORATION 

Sweat,  Thy  Bitter  Passion,  and  Thy  Shameful 
Humiliation,  Thou  Who  didst  patiently  bear  all 
these  things  for  us  men  and  for  our  salvation, Who 
with  a  word  could  have  had  Legions  of  Angels 
at  Thy  Side.  And  we  beseech  Thee  that  in  the 
thought  of  what  Thou  didst  bear  for  us,  we  also 
may  endure  all  trials  and  have  the  joy  of  fellow- 
ship with  Thee. 

We  adore  Thee,  Jesu,  carrying  Thy  Cross  for 
us,  crowned  with  the  crown  of  thorns,  covered 
with  Blood,  dust  and  spittle,  and  we  worship 
Thee  as  the  Prince  of  Peace,  Who  reconciled  us 
to  the  Father  by  that  Tree  of  Agony,  and  we 
pray  Thee  that  we  may  bravely  bear  our  Cross 
of  self-discipline,  self-denial  and  self-control. 

We  adore  Thee,  our  Redeemer,  Nailed  upon 
the  Cross  and  we  reverence  that  Sacred  Spectacle 
of  Shame  and  Suffering.  We  pray  that  Thy 
Precious  Blood  may  fall  on  us  Drop  by  Drop 
to  cleanse  us  from  all  our  sin  and  that  henceforth 
we  may  show  the  stigmata  of  that  Cross  in  a 
pure  and  holy  life.  O  Adorable  Saviour,  let  us 
rest  in  Thee,  as  we  now  adore  Thee  and  worship 
Thee,  the  Rock  of  Ages,  "the  Rock  that  is 
higher  than  I."  Bless  us  and  plead  for  us 
in  Thine  Heavenly  Intercession.  We  adore 
Thee  Stripped,  to  reprove  our  love  of  dress,  and 
beseech  Thee  to  strip  us  of  the  robe  of  pride  and 
to  clothe  us  with  humility.  We  adore  Thee, 
Nailed,  to  reprove  our  licence,  liberty  and  law- 
lessness and  beseech  Thee  to  crucify  our  vile  lusts 
and  affections.  We  adore  Thee  Crowned  with 
Thorns,  to  reprove  our  vain  ambitions  and  pray 
Thee  to  drive  away  from  us  worldly  thoughts 
and  unlawful  desires.  O  help  us  pattern  our- 
selves after  Thee,  Who  on  the  Cross  didst  lay 


ACTS   OF  ADORATION  15I 

down    Thy  Life,  Thou  Who   as    God   hast   all 
Power  over  Life  and  Death. 

We  adore  Thee,  our  Saviour,  taken  from  the 
Cross.  As  Thy  Sacred  Body  rested  in  the  Tomb, 
come  into  these  cold  hearts  of  ours  to  warm 
them  with  an  holy  fire  ;  as  Thou  O  Lord  didst 
preach  to  the  souls  in  Paradise  so  rule  and  direct 
us  in  all  things. 

We  adore  Thee  O  Christ,  Risen  again  from 
the  dead  and  Ascended  into  Heaven,  and  we 
pray  that  we  may  rise  from  our  sins  and  as- 
cend to  lead  a  better  life,  ever  drawing  nearer 
and  closer  to  Thee,  as  we  worship,  praise  and 
magnify  Thee,  the  Great  King  of  Kings,  the 
Lord  Most  High,  now  Reigning  in  Thy  Power 
at  the  Right  Hand  of  the  Father,  in  all  the  Glory 
of  the  Heavenly  Places,  adored  by  Angels  and 
Archangels  and  all  the  Company  of  Heaven. 

O  Saviour  of  the  World,  grant  that  we  may  no 
longer  requite  such  Infinite  Love  by  coldness  or 
wrongdoing.  Drive  away  from  us,  we  beseech 
Thee,  all  carelessness  and  indifference,  all  pride 
and  worldliness,  all  selfishness  and  ingratitude, 
and  grant  to  us  such  rich  measure  of  Thy  Grace 
that  we  may  wholly  give  ourselves  to  Thee,  Who 
wast  all  nailed  to  the  Cross  for  us  ;  that  we  may 
burn  with  the  fire  of  love,  the  ardour  of  devotion, 
the  fervour  of  zeal,  ever  adoring,  worshipping  and 
glorifying  Thee,  so  that  in  this  world  we  may 
feel  that  peace  and  exaltation  that  only  Thou 
canst  give  and  in  the  world  to  come  may  see 
Thee.  For  Thou  hast  said  ' '  Blessed  are  the  pure, 
in  heart  for  they  shall  see  God."  Glor^'  and 
honour,  praise  and  worship,  be  to  the  Father 
and  to  the  Son  and  to  the  Holy  Ghost,  world 
without  end.     Amen. 


EUCHARISTIC  HYMNS 


(  These  may  profitably  be  used  as  acts  of  Devotion.) 


O   SAVING  Victim,  opening  wide 
The  gate  of  Heaven  to  man  below, 
Our  foes  press  on  from  every  side 
Thine  aid  supply,  Thy  strength  bestow. 

All  praise  and  thanks  to  Thee  ascend. 

Forevermore,  Blest  One  in  Three, 
O  grant  us  life  that  shall  not  end, 

In  our  true  native  land  with  Thee  J 


V 


ERY  Bread,  Good  Shepherd,  tend  us  : 

Jesu,  of  Thy  Love  befriend  us  ; 
Thou  refresh  us,  Thou  defend  us  ; 
Thine  eternal  goodness  send  us, 

In  the  land  of  life  to  see. 


Thou,  Who  all  things  canst  and  knowest. 
Who  on  earth  such  Food  bestowest. 
Grant  us  with  Thy  Saints  though  lowest. 
Where  the  Heavenly  Feast  Thou  showest 

Fellow  heirs  and  guests  to  be.'^ 

*  S.  Thomas  Aquinas.  ^  Ancient  Hymn. 


O,    COME    ALL    YE    FAITHFUL;     O,    COME 
LET   US   ADORE    HIM." 


KUCHARISTIC   HYMNS  I53 

PROSTRATE  I  adore  Thee,  Deity  Unseen 
Who  Thy  Glory  hidest  'neath  these  shadows 
mean  ; 
Lord  my  faith  unfeigned,  evermore  increase 
Give  me  hope  unfading,  love  that  cannot  cease. 
Shepherd  of  the  Faithful,  Jesu,  hear  my  cry, 
Lord,  increase  their  faith  who  on  Thy  Faith 
rely. 

'T  was  the  Godhead  only,  on  the  Cross   was 

veiled, 
Here  the  Manhood  also  is  from  sight  concealed. 
Both  alike  believing.  Thee  One  Christ,  I  own 
Pleading  penitently  at  Thy  mercy's  Throne. 
Shepherd  of  the  Faithful,  Jesu  hear  our  cry. 
Lord,  increase  their  faith  who  on  Thy  Faith 
rely.^ 


THEE  we  adore,  O  hidden  Saviour,  Thee 
Who  in  Thy  Sacrament  dost  deign  to  be, 
Both  flesh  and  spirit  at  Thy  Presence  fail, 
Yet  here  Thy  Presence  we  devoutly  hail. 

O  blest  Memorial  of  our  Dying  Lord, 
Who  Living  Bread  to  men  doth  here  afford  ! 
O  may  our  souls  for  ever  feed  on  Thee, 
And  Thou,  O  Christ,  for  ever  Precious  be. 

Fountain  of  Goodness,  Jesu,  Lord  and  God, 
Cleanse  us  unclean  with    Thy  Most   Cleansing 

Blood  : 
Increase  our  faith  and  love  that  we  may  know 
The  hope  and  peace  which  from  Thy  Presence 

flow. 

*  Adapted  from  Priests'  Book  of  Private  Devotion. 


154  EUCHARISTIC   HYMNS 

O  Christ,  "Whom  now  beneath  a  veil  we  see, 
May  what  we  thirst  for  soon  our  portion  be, 
To  gaze  on  Thee  unveiled  and  see  Thy  Face, 
The  vision  of  Thy  Glory  and  Thy  Grace.' 


BREAD  of  Heaven,  on  Thee  we  feed 
For  Thy  Flesh  is  meat  indeed : 
Ever  may  our  souls  be  fed 
With  this  true  and  living  Bread  : 
Day  by  day  with  strength  supplied 
Through  the  Life  of  Him,  Who  Died. 

Vine  of  Heaven,  Thy  Blood  supplies 

This  Blest  Cup  of  Sacrifice  ; 

Lord,  Thy  Wounds  our  healing  give 

To  Thy  Cross  we  look  and  live  : 
Jesu,  may  we  ever  be 
Grafted,  rooted,  built  in  Thee.^ 


WE  love  Thine  Altar,  Lord 
O,  what  on  earth  so  dear  ? 
For  there  in  faith  adored, 
We  find  Thy  Presence  near. 

Lord  Jesus  grant  us  grace 

On  earth  to  love  Thee  more  ; 
In  Heaven,  to  see  Thy  Face 

And  with  Thy  Saints  adore, ^ 

*  Hymn  312,  A  and  M.  ''  Hymn  318,  A  and  M. 

'  Hymn  242,  A  and  M. 


EUCHARISTIC  HYMNS  1 55 

WORD  made  Flesh,  true  Bread  He  maketh 
By  His  Word,  His  Flesh  to  be  ; 
Wine  His  Blood,  which  whoso  taketh 
Must  from  carnal  thoughts  be  free  ; 
Faith  alone,  though  sight  forsaketh. 
Shows  true  hearts  the  Mystery. 

Therefore  we  before  Him  bending 

This  great  Sacrament  revere  ; 
Types  and  shadows  have  their  ending, 

For  the  newer  Rite  is  here  ; 
Faith  our  outward  sense  befriending 

Makes  our  inward  vision  clear. 

Glory,  let  us  give  and  blessing 

To  the  Father  and  the  Son, 
Honour,  might  and  praise  addressing 

While  eternal  ages  run, 
Ever  too  His  Love  confessing 

Who  from  Both  with  Both  is  One.^ 


SOUL  of  Jesus,  make  me  holy, 
Make  me  contrite,  meek,  and  lowly 
Soul  most  stainless.    Soul  Divine, 
Cleanse  this  sordid  soul  of  mine, 
Hallow  this  polluted  soul. 
Purify  it,  make  it  whole, 
Soul  of  Jesus,  hallow  me. 

Miserere  Domine. 

Save  me,  Body  of  my  Lord, 

Save  a  sinner,  vile,   abhorred. 

Sacred  Body,  wan  and  worn, 

Bruised  and  mangled,  scourged  and  torn, 

^  Hymn  30Q,  A  and  M. 


156  EUCHARISTIC   HYMNS 

Pierced  Hands  and  Feet  and  Side, 
Rent,  insulted,  Crucified, 
Save  me  —  to  the  Cross  I  flee, 
Miserere  Domine. 

Blood  of  Jesus,  stream  of  life 
Sacred  stream  with  blessings  rife. 
From  that  Broken  Body  shed, 
On  the  Cross,  that  Altar  dread, 
Given  to  be  our  Drink  Divine, 
Fill  my  heart  and  make  it  Thine, 
Blood  of  Christ,  my  succour  be. 
Miserere  Domine. 

Stream  of  water,  stream  that  poured 
From  Thy  pierced  Side,  O  Lord, 
Wash  Thou  me  without,  within, 
Cleanse  me  from  the  taint  of  sin. 
Till  my  soul  is  clean  and  white, 
Bathed  and  purified  and  bright, 
As  a  ransomed  soul  should  be, 
Miserere  Domine. 

Jesu,  by  the  wondrous  power 
Of  Thine  awful  Passion  hour. 
By  the  unimagined  woe, 
Mortal  man  may  never  know  ; 
By  the  curse  upon  Thee  laid, 
By  the  Ransom  Thou  hast  paid. 
By  Thy  Passion,  comfort  me. 
Miserere  Domine. 

Jesu,  by  Thy  bitter  Death, 
By  Thy  last  expiring  Breath, 
Give  me  the  Eternal  Life 
Purchased  by  that  mortal  strife. 
Thou  didst  suffer  Death  that  I 


EUCHARISTIC  HYMNS  157 

Might  not  die  eternally  ; 
By  Thy  Dying  quicken  me. 
Miserere  Domine. 

Miserere  ;  let  me  be 
Never  parted,   Lord,  from  Thee  ; 
Guard  me  from  my  ruthless  foe, 
Save  me  from  eternal  woe  ; 
In  the  dreadful  Judgment  Day 
Be  Thy  Cross  my  hope  and  stay  ; 
When  the  hour  of  Death  is  near 
And  my  spirit  faints  for  fear, 
Call  me  with  Thy  Voice  of  Love, 
Place  me  near  to  Thee  above. 
With  Thine  Angel  Host  to  raise 
An  undying  song  of  praise  ; 

Miserere  Domine.' 


AND  now,  O  Father,  mindful  of  the  love 
That  bought  us,  once  for  all,  on  Calvary's 
Tree 
And  having  with  us  Him  that  pleads  above. 
We   here   present,    we  here  spread   forth   to 
Thee, 
That  only  Offering,  Perfect  in  Thine  eyes, 
The  One,  True,  Pure,  Immortal  Sacrifice. 

Look,  Father,  look  on  His  Anointed  Face 
And  only  look  on  us  as  found  in  Him  ; 

Look  not  on  our  misusings  of  Thy  Grace, 

Our  prayers  so  languid,  and  our  faith  so  dim  ; 

For  lo  !  Between  our  sins  and  their  reward, 

We  set  the  Passion  of  Thy  Son  our  Lord. 

*  From  the  Church  Porch^  England  1855,  quoted  now 
from  Priests'  Book  of  Private  Devotions. 


158  EUCHARISTIC   HYMNS 

And  then  for  those  our  dearest  and  our  best 
By  this  Prevailing  Presence  we  appeal  ; 

O  fold  them  closer  to  Thy  Mercy's  Breast ; 
O  do  Thine  utmost  for  their  soul's  true  weal  ! 

From    tainting  mischief  keep  them  white  and 
clear, 

And  crown  their  gifts  with  strength  to  persevere. 

And  so  we  come  ;  O  draw  us  to  Thy  Feet, 
Most  Patient  Saviour  Who  canst  love  us  still ! 

And  by  this  Food,  so  awful  and  so  sweet 
Deliver  us  from  every  touch  of  ill. 

In  Thine  Own  service  make  us  glad  and  free, 

And  grant  us  never  more  to  part  from  Thee.^ 

1  Hymn  228,  American  Hymnal. 


A  LONGER  FORM  OF 
SELF  EXAMINATION' 

BY    THE 

TEN  COMMANDMENTS 

{These  Conimand^nents  condemn  all  sins  and  cont- 
'mend  all  virtues  :  when  anything-  is  explicitly  ordered 
or  forbidden^  the  contrary  is  implicitly  condemned  or 
commanded.) 


THE   FIRST   COMMANDMENT 

Religion 

( This  teaches  Faith,  Hope,  and  Charity  and  condemns 
spiritual  and  intellectual  Pride  which  is  the  cause  of 
all  unbelief  or  irreligion.) 

I   AM  the  Lord   thy  God  :    thou  shalt  have 
none  other  gods  but  Me. 

— Have  I  realized  the  need  and  duty  of  Religion  ? 

— Have  I  firmly  believed  in  God,  the  Blessed 
Trinity,  Three  Persons,  Father,  Son 
and  Holy  Ghost,  but  One  God, 
Maker  and  Preserver  of  all  things  ? 

^  This  may  be  used  before  the  great  Festivals  and  Fasts 
of  the  Church  year  and  on  special  occasions. 


l6o         FORM   OF  SEI*F  EXAMINATION 

— Have  I  remembered  that  God  is  always  Pres- 
ent, and  sees  my  acts,  knows  my 
thoughts,  hears  my  words,  for  which 
some  day  I  must  give  account  ? 

— Have  I  believed  all  God  teaches  through  the 
Church,  the  Scriptures  and  the  Creeds, 
especially  the  truths  of  the  Incarnation 
and  Redemption,  and  have  I  kept  from 
all  false  doctrine,  heresy  and  schism  ? 

— Have  I  believed  in  the  Church  as  God's  ap- 
pointed means  of  grace,  to  teach  His 
Word,  administer  the  Sacraments  and 
save  souls? 

— Have  I  had  proper  trust  in  God's  Love, 
Mercy,  Goodness,  Justice,  Knowledge, 
confiding  all  to  Him  and  accepting  His 
Will  as  best  ?  Has  the  thought  of 
God's  Infinite  Holiness  and  Perfection 
humbled  me  and  driven  away  my  pride  ? 

— Have  I  thought  of  God's  Love  as  shown  in 
our  Creation,  Preservation,  and  Re- 
demption, and  all  the  blessings  of  this 
life? 

— Have  I  set  God  above  all  else,  loving  Him 
with  all  my  mind  and  soul  and  heart 
and  strength,  as  the  Father  Who  made 
me,  the  Son  Who  Redeemed  me,  the 
Holy  Ghost  Who  sanctified  me? 

— Have  I  had  a  holy  fear  of  sinning  against  God's 
Love.  Have  I  lived  according  to  His 
Will  and  Commandments  ? 

— Have  I  sinned  by  pride,  wrong  ambition, 
vainglory,  boastfulness,  love  of  praise, 
inordinate  opinion  of  myself,  posi- 
tion, talents  or  appearance  ?  Have  I 
been  self-willed  or  self-satisfied,  trust- 
ing too  much  in  human  knowledge  and 


FORM  OF  SEI.F   EXAMINATION  l6l 

refusing  godly  counsel  ?  Have  I  re- 
fused assent  to  God's  Revelation  or 
failed  to  obey  the  Church's  Teaching  ? 
-Have  I  grown  more  or  less  religious  as  I  have 
grown  older  ? 


o 


Act  of  Aniendinent 

MY  God,  I  believe  in  Thee,  I  hope  in 
Thee,  I  love  Thee,  and  I  grieve  that  I 
have  so  often  offended  Thee  by  my  sins. 


THE   SECOND   COMMANDMENT 

Worship 

(This  teaches  right  worship  o/  Almighty  GOD,  ac- 
cording to  the  teaching  and  practice  of  the  Church.  It 
forbids  giving  to  idols  or  creatures  the  homage  due  to 
GoD-     It  also  condemns  the  sin  of  spiritual  Sloth.) 

THOU  shalt  not  make  to  thyself  any  graven 
image,  nor  the  likeness  of  any  thing  that 
is  in  Heaven  above,  or  in  the  earth  beneath 
or  in  the  water  under  the  earth  ;  thou  shalt  not 
bow  down  to  them  nor  worship  them  ;  for  I  the 
Lord  thy  God  am  a  Jealous  God,  and  visit  the 
sins  of  the  fathers  upon  the  children,  unto 
the  third  and  fourth  generation  of  them  that 
hate  Me  ;  and  show  mercy  unto  thousands  in 
them  that  love  Me  and  keep  My  Commandments. 

— Have  I  worshipped  God  "in  spirit  and  in 
truth,"  humbly,  reverently  and  ador- 
ingly as  man  to  his  Maker,  as  a  sinner 
to  the  All-Holy  ? 


1 62  FORM  OF  SElvF  EXAMINATION 

— Have  I  faithfully  said  my  own  daily  devotions, 
attended  Family  Prayers  if  possible, 
read  the  Bible,  attended  service  in 
Church  and  above  all  regularly  received 
the  Holy  Communion  ? 

— Have  I  carefully  prepared  for  and  rightly 
received  the  Blessed  Sacrament  of 
Christ's  Body  and  Blood?  Have  I 
shown  due  reverence  to  Christ  Present 
in  the  Sacrament  ?  Have  I  gratefully 
made  my  thanksgiving? 

— Have  I  given  way  to  superstition  or  believed 
in  chance,  magic,  or  vain  observance  ? 

— Have  I  joined  heartily  in  the  services  of  the 
Church  and  listened  attentively  to  ser- 
mons, trying  to  profit  by  them  ? 

— Have  I  quoted  the  Bible  in  joke  ;  laughed 
at  such  quotations  ;  ridiculed  religious 
acts  ;  given  up  religious  practices  ? 

— Have  I  said  my  prayers  mechanically,  or 
without  love,  faith,  and  recollection? 

— Have  I  tried  to  keep  my  Baptismal  and  Con- 
firmation vows  ?  My  Marriage  or  Or- 
dination vows  ? 

— Have  I  given  to  idols,  images  or  creatures  the 
worship  due  to  God  only?  Have  I 
attended  services  where  error  was 
taught  or  practiced,  or  read  blasphem- 
ous, heretical  or  dangerous  books  ? 

— Have  I  loved  family,  friends,  power,  success, 
intellect,  riches,  self  or  self-will  or  any 
person  or  any  thing  more  than  God  ? 
Have  I  cultivated  detachment  from 
earthly  things? 

— Have  I  "set  God  always  before  me,"  realized 
His  Presence,  loved  to  worship  Him 
above  all  else,    thanking  Him  for  all 


FORM   OF   SEI.F   EXAMINATION  1 63 

His  Blessings  and  above   all    for    His 

Great  Glory  ? 
— Have  I  remembered  that  worship  here  fits  me 

for  the  life  in  Heaven  ? 
— Have  I  tempted  God  by  persistence  in  sin  ? 
— Have  I  complained  at  God's  Will  or  cursed 

anything  He  has  made  ? 


H 


Act  of  Ajuendment 

OLY  God,  Holy  and  Mighty,  Holy  and 
Immortal,  have  mercy  upon  us.' 

THE  THIRD  COMMANDMENT 

Reverence. 

{This  teaches  reverence  to  GOD  and  all  things  holy, 
and  forbids  all  blasphemy,  swearing,  cursing,  wrong 
oaths  or  voivs,  improper  use  0/  Sacred  Names,  and  all 
acts  of  irreverence,  which  come  from  Pride.) 

THOU  shalt  not  take  the  Name  of  the  Lord 
thy    God   in   vain  :    for  the   Lord   will 
not   hold   him  guiltless  that    taketh    His 
Name  in  vain. 

— Have  I  worshipped  and  adored  Almighty  God, 
the  Father,  Son  and  Holy  Ghost  : 
reverencing  and  bowing,  as  the  Script- 
ures direct,  at  God's  Holy  Name  and 
the  Name  of  Jesus  ? 

— Have  I  worshipped  God  with  the  body  as 
well  as  with  the  mind  and  soul,  doing 
as  the  Church  directs  ?  If  not,  was  it 
from  wrong  pride  or  fear  of  ridicule  ? 

— Have  I  honoured  and  reverenced  the  Blessed 
Virgin,  the  Apostles,  and  all  Saints  and 
Martyrs  ? 
^  Trisagion  of  Eastern  Church. 


164  FORM   OF  SEI<F  EXAMINATION 

— Have  I  reverenced  the  Church  as  the  Divine  In- 
stitution and  Mystical  Body  of  Christ  ; 
the  Sacraments  as  God's  appointed 
means  of  Grace  ;  the  Clergy  as  Stewards 
of  God's  Mysteries  ;  the  Bible  as  God's 
Inspired  Word  ;  and  all  holy  places 
and  holy  things  as  consecrated  to  God's 
service  ? 

— Have  I  cursed,  sworn,  blasphemed  or  made 
vain  use  of  God's  Name,  such  as  saying 
"  O  Lord"  "Good  Lord,"  other  than 
in  prayer?  Have  I  made  wrong  prom- 
ises, vows  or  oaths  ? 

— Have  I  from  ignorance  or  prejudice  objected 
to  Rites  and  Ceremonies  I  did  not 
understand,  when  they  glorified  God 
and  made  His  worship  beautiful? 

Act  of  Amendment 

OMY  God,  I  praise  Thee,  I  bless  Thee,  I 
worship    Thee,    I    glorify    Thee,    I    give 
thanks  to    Thee    for   Thy   Great  Glory, 
For  Thou  only  art   Holy  ;    Thou  only 
art  the  Lord. 

THE  FOURTH  COMMANDMENT 

Consecration. 

(  This  teaches  consec7-ation  of  all  to  GOD^  glorifying 
Him  by  our  service  ;  bids  us  give  one  day  in  seven  to  His 
Special  Worship  in  Churchy  and  work  other  days  if 
necessary  ;  it  forbids  desecration  of  Sttnday  by  secular 
avitisenients  or  unnecessary  labour  and  conde»ins  the  sin 
of  Sloth.) 

REMEMBER  that  thou  keep  holy  the  Sab- 
bath day.     Six    days    shalt    thou    labour, 
and  do  all  that  thou  hast  to  do  ;  but  the 
seventh  day  is  the  Sabbath  of  the  Lord  thy  God. 


FORM  OF  SEIyF  EXAMINATION         165 

In  it  thou  shalt  do  no  manner  of  work  ;  thou,  and 
thy  son,  and  thy  daughter,  thy  man-servant,  and 
thy  maid-servant,  thy  cattle,  and  thy  stranger 
that  is  vi^ithin  thy  gates.  For  in  six  days  the 
Lord  made  heaven  and  earth,  the  sea,  and  all 
that  in  them  is,  and  rested  the  seventh  day  : 
wherefore  the  Lord  blessed  the  seventh  day,  and 
hallowed  it.^ 

— Have  I  kept  Sunday  as  the  Lord's  Day, 
going  regularly  to  Church,  receiving 
the  Holy  Communion  or  being  present 
at  the  Holy  Eucharist  ? 

— Have  I  kept  all  Holy  Days  and  Saints  Days  : 
if  possible  by  going  to  Church  and  re- 
ceiving the  Sacrament,  if  not,  by  read- 
ing the  service  at  home  ? 

— Have  I  kept  Advent  and  Lent  by  additional 
attendance  at  Church,  special  self-de- 
nial, and  if  able  by  fasting  ? 

— Have  I  kept  Friday  in  memory  of  the  Cruci- 
fixion of  our  Lord  and  abstained  from 
meat  and  all  entertainments? 

— Have  I  urged  those  under  me  and  given  them 
time  to  attend  Divine  Worship,  remem- 
bering my  responsibility  for  failure  to 
do  so  ;  have  I  tried  to  win  others  to 
God,  chiefly  by  a  good  example  ? 

— Have  I  on  Sundays  carefully  refrained  from 
travel,  places  of  amusement,  races  and 
games  and  from  all  but  recreation  be- 
fitting the  day?  Have  I  kept  from 
unnecessary  work  and  avoided  making 

*  The  observance  of  Saturday,  the  7th  day,  was  trans- 
ferred to  Sunday,  the  ist  day,  in  Honour  of  our  Lord's 
Resurrection.  He  said  that  He  was  "  Lord  over  the  Sab- 
bath." 


1 66         FORM  OF  SElyF  EXAMINATION 

others  do  such,  keeping  Sunday  as  a 
holy  and  happy  day  ? 

— Have  I  consecrated  myself  to  God  ;  realized 
my  responsibility  before  Him  ;  followed 
Christ's  command  of  Prayer,  Fasting 
and  Almsgiving,  and  when  possible, 
giving  away  at  least  one  tenth  of  what 
I  receive  ?  Have  I  faithfully  worked 
through  the  week  "  in  that  state  of  life 
unto  which  it  has  pleased  God  to  call 
me,"  doing  all  as  in  His  Sight  and  to 
His  Glory? 

— Have  I  wasted  my  time,  misused  my  talents, 
or  spent  too  much  time  in  sleep,  rest  or 
pleasure  ?  Have  I  devoted  some  space 
to  God's  service,  such  as  teaching  the 
ignorant  or  visiting  the  sick  ? 

— Have  I  guarded  against  Sloth  by  making  my 
mind  to  learn  of  God,  my  soul  to  wor- 
ship God,  my  body  to  work  for  God, 
trying  "  to  serve  Him  truly  all  the  days 
of  my  life." 

Act  of  Amendment. 

STIR   up,   we   beseech  Thee,  O  Lord,  the 
wills  of  Thy  faithful  people  :    that  they 
plenteously  bringing  forth  the  fruit  of  good 
works,  may  by  Thee  be  plenteously  rewarded  : 
through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord.     Amen. 

THE  FIFTH  COMMANDMENT 

Love. 

(This  teaches  the   Sanctity   of  Home .^  the  virtue  of 
Obedience.,  and  our  duty  in  all  the  social  relations.^ 

ONOUR  thy  father  and  thy  mother  :  that 
thy  days  may  be  long  in  the  land  which 
the  Lord  thy  God  giveth  thee. 


H 


FORM  OF  SEI.F  EXAMINATION  1 67 

— Have  I  honoured  and  obeyed  my  father  and 
mother,  and  tried  to  make  home  holy 
and  happy,  remembering  the  Presence 
of  God  and  the  Home  of  Jesus  ? 

— Have  I  laughed  at  my  parents,  failed  to  love 
them,  neglected  them,  been  ashamed 
of  them,  refused  their  counsel,  wasted 
their  money,  disgraced  them,  been 
cross,  unkind  or  disrespectful  to  them, 
or  through  my  fault  brought  sorrow 
and  suffering  upon  them  ? 

— Have  I  been  kind,  loving,  gentle,  sympa- 
thetic and  thoughtful  to  those  about  me, 
especially  to  the  aged  ? 

— Have  I  tried  to  do  unto  others  as  I  would  they 
should  do  to  me  ;  used  my  influence  for 
good  ;  counselled  kindly  ;  rebuked  faults 
lovingly  ;  helped  others  humbly  to  re- 
sist temptations,  remembering  that  all 
are  souls  for  whom  Christ  Died  ? 

— Have  I  honoured  and  obeyed  the  civil  author- 
ity, submitted  myself  to  all  governors, 
teachers,  spiritual  pastors  and  masters, 
and  ordered  myself  lowly  and  rever- 
ently to  all  my  betters  ? 

— Have  I  tried  to  incline  others  to  do  right  ? 

{Additional  questions  for  a  Parent.^ 

— Have  I  brought  up  my  children  to  love  and 
fear  God,  to  go  to  Church,  to  say  their 
prayers,  to  learn  as  far  as  possible  the 
Christian  Faith  ? 

— Have  I  had  my  children  Baptized,  Con- 
firmed when  old  enough,  and  taught 
them  properly  to  prepare  for  Holy 
Communion  ? 

— Have  I    set   my   children   a   good   example  ; 


1 68  FORM  OF  SFr<F   EXAMINATION 

gained  their  love  and  confidence  ;  en- 
tered into  their  joys  and  sorrows  ;  fol- 
lowed their  pleasures  and  pursuits  ; 
seen  that  they  had  proper  friends,  read 
proper  books  and  went  to  proper  places  ; 
tried  to  be  kind,  gentle,  and  attentive 
to  them  ;  and  opposed  their  wishes  only 
for  their  good  ? 

—  Have  I  carefully  watched  over  them  ;   made 
all  necessary  sacrifices  for  their  tempo- 
ral and  spiritual  welfare  and  when  pos- 
sible regularly  had  Family  Prayers  ? 
{A  dditional  questions  for  Married  Persons.) 

— Have  I  fulfilled  all  the  obligations  and  prom- 
ises of  the  Marriage  Vows,  made  at 
God's  Altar,  "  to  have  and  to  hold,  for 
better  for  worse,  for  richer  for  poorer, 
in  sickness  and  in  health,  to  love  and 
to  cherish,  to  honour  and  to  keep,  to 
be  true  and  faithful "  till  death  us 
do  part  according  to  God's  Holy 
ordinance  ? 
{Additional  questions /or  a  Husband.) 

— Have  I  loved,  cared  for  and  honoured  my 
wife  as  the  weaker  vessel?  Have  I 
kept  from  being  selfish,  exacting  or 
neglectful?  Have  I  helped  her  ;  made 
her  happy?  Have  I  ever  asked  her 
obedience  in  anything  wrong  ;  have  I 
tried  to  do  my  duty  :  "  Husbands  love 
yozir  wives  even  as  Christ  also  loved 
the  Church  and  gave  Hifuself  for  it "  ?  ' 

{Additional  questions  for  a  Wife.) 
— Have  I  kept    my   vow    to    serve    and    obey 
my    husband,    remembering    that    the 
*  Ephesians  v.  25. 


FORM  OF  SEI,F  EXAMINATION         1 69 

glory  of  the  woman  is  her  obedience  ? 
Have  I  tried  not  to  be  wasteful,  ex- 
travagant, irritable  or  unreasonable  ? 
Have  I  tried  to  please  my  husband  and 
make  the  home  quiet,  peaceful,  bright, 
and  happy,  doing  my  duty  even  as  the 
Bible  bids  :  "  Wives  submit  yourselves 
unto  your  ozvn  husband  as  tinto  the 
Lord,  for  the  husband  is  the  head  of 
the  wife  even  as  Christ  is  the  Head  of 
the  Church  :  and  he  is  the  Saviour  of 
the  body.  Therefore  as  the  Church  is 
subject  ttnto  Christ,  so  let  the  ivives  be  to 
their  oxvn  hjisbands  in  every  thing.^'  ^ 

Act  of  Amendjnejit 

OLORD,  Mercifully  look  with  favour  upon 
us,  we  beseech  Thee,  and  fill  us  with  all 
spiritual  grace  and  benediction,  that  we 
may  so  live  in  all  the  relations  of  this  life  that 
in  the  world  to  come  we  may  have  life  ever- 
lasting.    Amen. 

THE   SIXTH   COMMANDMENT 

Self  Discipline 

(  This  teaches  self-control  and  brotherly  love,  bids  us  to 
be  forbearing  and  forgiving  and  to  refrain  from  Aitger 
in  thought  or  word  or  deed.) 


T 


HOU  shalt  do  no  murder. 


— Have  I  been  angry  without  cause  or  beyond 
cause,  or  given  way  to  rage  or  evil 
passion  ? 

— Have  I  entertained  feelings  of  revenge,  mal- 

*  Ephesians  v.  22-24. 


lyo  FORM   OF   SEI/F   EXAMINATION 

ice,  or  hatred  ;  brooded  over  slights  or 
injuries;  thought  of  murder  or  suicide  ; 
wished  to  injure  any  one  ;  desired  evil 
to  come  to  others  ;  or  rejoiced  at  their 
misfortunes  ? 

— Have  I  been  cross,  irritable,  quarrelsome, 
disagreeable,  ill-tempered,  provoking, 
or  fault-finding  ? 

— Have  I  tried  to  control  my  temper ;  re- 
strained anger  by  thinking  of  the  Sil- 
ence of  Jesus,  Who  when  reviled 
reviled  not  again  ? 

—Have  I  prayed  for  my  enemies  as  Christ  did 
on  the  Cross  ;  forgiven  in  my  heart  all 
who  have  offended  me,  being  ready  to 
express  it  if  party  owned  his  sorrow  ? 

— Have  I  been  harsh  or  overbearing  to  any  one  ; 
or  cruel  to  persons  or  animals  ? 

— Have  I  taken  pleasure  in  seeing  or  hearing 
the  faults  of  others  ;  have  I,  if  in  the 
wrong,  owned  my  own  fault  and  done 
what  I  could  to  show  regret  ? 

— Have  I  murdered  souls  by  a  bad  example, 
putting  temptation  in  their  way,  speak- 
ing lightly  of  sin  ? 

— Have  I  tried  to  love  all  persons  :  seeing  their 
good  points  :  forgiving  their  faults  ? 

— Have  I  cultivated  patience  and  self-control, 
thinking  before  speaking  ;  at  times  giv- 
ing up  my  own  wishes  ;  and  following 
the  Rule  of  Charity  ? 

Act  of  A  mendment 

OLORD,  Who  hast  taught  us  that  all  our 
doings  without  charity  are  nothing  worth  ; 
send   Thy    Holy  Ghost  and  pour  into 
our  hearts  that   most   excellent  gift  of  charity, 


FORM  OF  SElyF  EXAMINATION         171 

the  very  bond  of  peace  and  of  all  virtues,  with- 
out which  whosoever  liveth  is  counted  dead  be- 
fore Thee.  Grant  this  for  Thine  Only  Son 
Jesus  Christ's  sake.     Amen. 

THE   SEVENTH    COMMANDMENT 

Purity. 

{T/iis  teaches  Purity  i?i  thought  and  word  and  deed 
and  condemns  the  sin  of  Lust.) 

T^HOU  shalt  not  commit  Adultery, 

— Have  I  remembered  that  we  are  the  "  Tem- 
ple of  the  Holy  Ghost,"  and  that  the 
sin  of  Impurity  is  a  grave  offence 
against  God  ? 

— Have  I  been  impure  in  Act :  with  others  or 
myself  ?  Have  I  had  impure  relations 
with  any  one  ? 

— Have  I  been  impure  in  Word,  speaking  any- 
thing vile,  immoral,  unchaste  or  sug- 
gestive of  evil  ? 

— Have  I  been  impure  in  Thought,^  reading 
immoral  books,  looking  at  indecent 
persons,  pictures  or  things,  listening  to 
filthy  conversations  or  jokes? 

— Have  I  inquired  into  inatters  of  morals  out  of 
mere  curiosity  ? 

— Have  I  encouraged  impure  desires  instead  of 
driving  such  away  ? 

— Have  I  remembered  that  God  requires  the 
same  purity  in  man  as  in  woman  ? 

— Have  I  been  to  places  or  gone  with  persons 
that  might  tempt  me  to  impurity  ? 

— Have  I  been  modest  in  person  and  dress, 
^  Impure  thoughts  if  encouraged  become  sins  of  act. 


172         FORM  OF  SFIyF  EXAMINATION 

never  taking  liberties,  avoiding  even 
"  the  appearance  of  evil." 

— Have  I  tried  at  once  to  drive  away  evil 
thoughts,  using  Prayer,  Fasting,  even 
Flight  if  necessary,  remembering  that 
Impurity  brings  darkness  of  mind, 
hardness  of  heart,  injury  of  health,  re- 
sists God's  Grace  and  leads  to  final  im- 
penitence and  everlasting  damnation  ? 

— Have  I  thought  of  the  Spotless  Purity  of 
Jesus  to  incite  me  to  holiness?  Have  I 
tried  to  follow  Him? 

— Have  I  tried  to  be  watchful,  prayerful,  and 
disciplined,  thinking  of  Jesus  and  His 
Words,  "  Blessed  are  the  pure  in  heart 
for  they  shall  see  GodT  ' 

Act  of  A  mendment 

ALMIGHTY  God,  Who  seest  that  we  have 
no  power  of  ourselves  to  help  ourselves  ; 
keep  us  both  outwardly  in  our  bodies  and 
inwardly  in  our  souls  ;  that  we  may  be  defended 
from  all  adversities  which  may  happen  to  the 
body  and  from  all  evil  thoughts  which  may 
assault  and  hurt  the  soul,  through  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord.    Amen. 

THE  EIGHTH  COMMANDMENT 

Honesty. 

( This  teaches  Honesty  and  Contenttnent  and  condemns 
the  sin  of  Envy.) 

'HOU  shalt  not  steal. 


T 


— Have  I  been  true  and  just  and  honest  in  all 
that  I  did  ?     Have  I  used  my  time  and 
^  S.  Matthew  v.  8. 


FORM  Olf  SEIvF  EXAMINATION  1 73 

talents,  my  privileges  and  opportunities 
as  in  God's  service  and  for  His  Glory  ? 
Have  I  given  liberally  and  by  self- 
sacrifice  to  the  Church  and  poor  ;  real- 
izing that  if  I  do  not  do  these  things 
when  possible,  I  am  stealing  from  God  ? 

— Have  I  ever  robbed,  stolen,  embezzled,  mis- 
represented ;  asked  too  much  or  paid  too 
little  for  work  or  articles  ;  borrowed, 
knowing  I  could  not  repay  ;  failed  to  re- 
turn articles  loaned  ;  taken  advantage 
of  another's  ignorance  or  necessity  ;  or 
failed  to  be  just  and  true  in  all  I  did  ? 

— Have  I  committed  sacrilege  by  stealing  from 
a  church  or  irreverently  treating  holy 
things  ? 

— Have  I  gambled,  speculated,  taken  chances  ; 
spent  too  much  money  on  myself  or 
family  ;  failed  to  provide,  if  possible, 
for  those  who  needed  it  ;  taken  away 
unjustly  any  one's  good  name  or  char- 
acter ? 

— Have  I  felt  my  responsibility  for  the  right  use 
of  God's  Blessings  ;  kept  my  soul  as 
God's  ;  thought  of  the  Poverty  of 
Jesus  ;  meditated  on  the  uncertainty  of 
riches  and  the  insufficiency  of  earthly 
joys  ;  ministered  to  my  soul  spiritual 
things  ;  and  tried  to  detach  myself  from 
earthly  desires  ? 

Act  of  Amendmetit, 

OGOD,  Forasmuch  as  without  Thee  we  are 
not  able  to  please  Thee  ;  Mercifully  grant 
that  Thy  Holy  Spirit  may  in  all  things 
direct  and  rule  our  hearts,  through  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord.     Amen, 


174         FORM  OF  SEI.F  EXAMINATION 

THE  NINTH  COMMANDMENT 

Truth. 

{This  teaches  Truthfulness  and  forbids  all  kinds  of 
lying  and  deceit.) 

HOU   shalt  not  bear  false  witness  against 
thy  neighbour. 


T 


— Have  I  tried  to  be  in  love  and  charity  with 
all  persons  ;  thought  kindly  of  their 
doings  ;  aimed  to  see  their  virtues,  not 
their  faults  ? 

— Have  I  hurt  any  one  by  slander  or  gossip  ; 
believed  evil  without  proof  ;  revealed 
confidences  ;  spoken  uncharitably  ; 
started  or  repeated  scandal  ;  been  sus- 
picious without  cause  ;  said  things  I 
did  not  mean  ;  mentioned  things  I  was 
not  sure  about  ? 

— Have  I  kept  from  Envy,  remembering  that  the 
Early  Church  called  it  a  Diabolical  sin, 
since  it  murmurs  against  God  ? 

— Have  I  hurt  or  wounded  unnecessarily  ; 
laughed  at  the  poor  or  ignorant  ; 
spoken  against  the  wealthy  or  learned  ? 
Have  I  misrepresented  the  clergy  ? 

— Have  I  condemned  error  and  sin  ?  Have  I 
kindly  entreated  the  sinner?  Have  I 
always  told  the  truth  ;  acted  the  truth  ? 
Have  I  deceived  or  flattered  ;  made 
others  lie  ;  acted  the  hypocrite  ? 

— Have  I  remembered  that  God  '' hateth  rvho- 
soever  maketh  or  loveth  a  lie  "  ?  Have 
I  ruled  my  tongue  ;  sought  my  own 
faults  ;  in  humility  corrected  them  ; 
recollected  the  condition  of  the  Lord's 


FORM  OF  SEI.F   EXAMINATION         1 75 

Prayer,  "Forgive  us  our  trespasses  as 
we  forgive  those  that  trespass  against 
us." 

Act  of  A  niendment. 

OLORD,  Who  art  the  Way,  the  Truth  and 
the  Life,  grant  us  so  to  follow  the  Example 
of  Thy  Holy  Life,  that  we  may  come  to 
Thy  unspeakable  joys  which  Thou  hast  laid  up 
for  those  who  love  Thee.     Amen. 


THE  TENTH  COMMANDMENT 
Contentment. 

{This  teaches  Discipline  and  Resignation^  and  for- 
bids all  Gluttony  and  Covetousness  and  all  inordinate 
indulgence  or  desire  for  earthly  things.') 

THOU  shalt  not  covet  thy  neighbour's  house, 
thou  shalt  not  covet  thy  neighbour's  wife, 
nor  his  servant  nor  his  maid,   nor  his  ox 
nor  his  ass  nor  any  thing  that  is  his. 

— Have  I  been  contented  in  that  state  of  life  unto 
which  it  has  pleased  God  to  call  me  ? 

— Have  I  been  satisfied  with  what  He  has  given 
me  and  believed  that  God  knows  best 
what  is  good  for  me?  Have  I  been 
resigned  to  God's  Will? 

— Have  I  disciplined  myself  ;  driven  away  wrong 
ambitions  :  never  tried  to  advance  my- 
self save  that  I  might  serve  God  more, 
benefit  my  family  or  better  use  my 
talents  ? 

—Have  I  unlawfully  desired  the  goods  or  per- 
son of  another,  to  gratify  covetousness 


176 


FORM   OF  SFI^F  EXAMINATION 


or  indulge  sinful  passion  ;  coveted  the 
praise  or  prosperity,  the  comfort  or  suc- 
cess of  others  ;  failed  to  rejoice  at  their 
good  fortune,  when  God  willed  it  ? 

— Have  I  sought  or  thought  too  much  of  ease, 
luxury,  comfort,  riches  or  social  posi- 
tion, forgetting  that  Christ  lived  on 
earth  as  a  Carpenter,  in  poverty  and 
privation,  emptying  Himself  of  the  In- 
signia of  His  Divine  Glory? 

— Have  I  eaten  or  drank  too  much,  too  often, 
or  of  too  costly  a  kind  ;  been  too  luxu- 
rious in  my  living  ;  gratified  too  much 
foolish  desires  ;  spent  too  much  time  in 
pleasures  and  gayeties,  forgetful  that 
these  lead  away  from  GoD  ? 

— Have  I  been  intoxicated  or  under  the  influ- 
ence of  liquor  ;  led  others  to  become 
so  ;  laughed  at  persons  in  this  condi- 
tion, failed  to  rebuke  them  kindly,  for- 
getting that  the  Scriptures  say  that 
those  who  commit  ''''drunkenness  and 
revellings  and  the  like  .  .  .  shall  not 
inherit  the  kingdom  of  God  "  ?.  ^ 

— Have  I  cultivated  temperance,  contentment, 
and  cheerfulness,  by  self-denial,  and 
self-discipline,  enduring  "  hardness  as 
a  good  soldier  of  Jesus  Christ  "  ; 
Have  I  been  patient  and  hopeful  in 
sorrow  and  suffering,  doubt  and  diffi- 
culty, trial  and  temptation? 

— Have  I  tried  daily  to  think  more  of  spiritual 
joys  and  less  of  earthly  comforts  ; 
learned  gladly  to  do  without  things  ; 
followed  the  words  of  God.  "  he  content 
with  such  things  as  ye  have  "  ?  '^ 


*  Galatians  v.  21. 


^  Hebrews  xiii.  5. 


FORM  OF  SELF  EXAMINATION  1 77 

—  Have  I  thought  of  Death  and  Judgment, 
Heaven  and  Hell,  that  using  the  things 
of  this  world  rightly,  I  might  fit  myself 
for  life  everlasting? 

Act  of  A  mendment. 

ALMIGHTY  God,  grant  us  grace  that  we 
may  cast  away  the  works  of  darkness  and 
put  upon  us  the  armour  of  light,  now  in  the 
time  of  this  mortal  life,  in  which  Thy  Son  Jesus 
Christ  came  to  visit  us  in  great  humility  ;  that 
in  the  last  day,  when  He  shall  come  again  in 
His  Glorious  Majesty  to  judge  the  quick  and  the 
dead,  we  may  rise  to  the  Life  Immortal,  through 
Him  Who  liveth  and  reigneth  with  Thee  and 
the  Holy  Ghost,  now  and  ever.     Amen. 


A  SHORT   FORM   OF   PREPAR- 
ATION  FOR  HOLY 
COMMUNION. 

(  This  may  be  used  by  very  young  persons^  by  those  of 
limited  leisure^  and  by  those  little  used  to  forms  of 
devotion.) 

PREPARATION. 

IN  the  Name  •!•  of  the  Father  and  of  the 
Son  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen, 

Come,  Holy  Ghost,  our  Souls  inspire, 
And  lighten  with  Celestial  Fire. 

OHOLY   SPIRIT,   be  Thou   in  my  mind 
that  I  may  know  all  of  my  sins,  in  my 
heart  that  I   may  repent    them,    in   my 
mouth  that  I  may  confess  them,  and  obtain  For- 
giveness,   through  Jesus   Christ,    our   Lord. 
Amen. 

CLEANSE  our  consciences,  we  beseech  Thee, 
O  Lord,  by  Thy  Visitation,  that  Thy 
Son,  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  when  He 
Cometh  may  find  in  us  a  mansion  prepared  for 
Himself,  Who  liveth  and  reigneth  with  Thee, 
in  the  Unity  of  the  Holy  Spirit,  God  forever 
and  ever.     Amen. 

178 


PREPARATION   FOR   HOI,Y  COMMUNION    1 79 

SELF  EXAMINATION. 

Have  I  believed  in  One  Gou,  Father,  Son 
and  Holy  Ghost  ;  in  the  Incarnate  Life 
of  Jesus  Christ  ;  and  in  all  that  God  has 
taught  in  the  Bible  or  through  the  Church  ? 

Have  I  believed  and  trusted  God's  Love,  Mercy, 
Goodness  and  Justice,  and  His  Promise 
of  salvation  to  all  who  are  sorry  for  their 
sins  ? 

Have  I  loved  God  v^^ith  all  my  heart,  with  all 
my  mind,  with  all  my  soul,  and  with  all 
my  strength  ?  Have  I  been  resigned  to 
what  He  deems  best,  trying  to  do  all  for 
His  Glory  ? 

Have  I  loved  my  neighbour  as  myself,  and,  as 
far  as  possible,  lived  in  love  and  charity 
with  all  men  ? 

Have  I  sinned  by  Pride,  Anger,  Covetousness, 
Envy,  Gluttony,  (Drunkenness),  Lust  or 
Sloth  ? 

Have  I  tried  to  keep  God's  Commandments  ? 

Have  I  gone  to  Church,  said  my  Prayers,  and 
received  the  Holy  Communion  ? 

Have  I  done  my  work  to  the  best  of  my  ability, 
as  in  the  Sight  of  God? 

How  specially  have  I  done  wrong? 

Have  I  sinned  willingly  or  knowingly  and  am  I 
truly  sorry  ?  Am  I  repentant  because  I 
have  sinned  against  God's  Love,  or  only 
because  I  fear  punishment  ? 

ACT    of   amendment. 

I   WILL  arise  and  go  to  my  Father,  and  will 
say   unto    Him,    Father,    I   have    sinned 
against   Heaven  and  before  Thee,  and  am 
no  more  worthy  to  be  called  Thy  son. 


l8o  PREPARATION   FOR   HOI,Y   COMMUNION 


CONFESSION. 

ALMIGHTY  God,  Father  of  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ,  I  acknowledge  and  bewail 
my  manifold  sins  and  wickedness,  which 
I  from  time  to  time  most  grievously  have  com- 
mitted by  thought,  word  and  deed  against  Thy 
Divine  Majesty  (and  especially  .  .  ,  here 
name  your  greatest  faults).  I  do  earnestly  re- 
pent and  am  heartily  sorry  for  these  my  mis- 
doings, and  I  beseech  Thee  to  forgive  me  all 
that  is  past  and  to  grant  that  I  may  ever  here- 
after serve  and  please  Thee  in  newness  of  life, 
to  Thine  Honour  and  Glory,  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

ACT    OF    contrition. 

HAVE  mercy  upon  me,  O  God,  after  Thy 
great  goodness  ;  according  to  the  mul- 
titude of  Thy  mercies  do  away  mine 
offences.  Wash  me  throughly  from  my  wicked- 
ness and  cleanse  me  from  my  sin.  For  I 
acknowledge  my  faults ;  and  my  sin  is  ever 
before  me. 


ACT  OF  faith,  love  AND  REPENTANCE. 


o 
o 


MY  God,  I  believe  in  Thee,  I  hope  in 
Thee,  I  love  Thee  and  I  grieve  that  I 
have  so  often  offended  Thee  by  my  sins. 

UR  Father,  Who  art  in  Heaven,  etc. 

Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 


PREPARATION   FOR   HOIvY   COMMUNION    iSl 

O   SAVIOUR  of   the  world,   Who  by  Thy 
Cross  and  Precious  Blood  hast  Redeemed 
us,  save  us  and  help  us,  we  humbly  be- 
seech Thee,  O  Lord, 

PSALM   cxxx. 

OUT  of  the  deep  have  I  called  unto  Thee,  O 
Lord:  Lord,  hear  my  voice. 
O  let  Thine  ears  consider  well :  the  voice 
of  my  complaint. 
If  Thou,  O  Lord,  wilt  be   extreme   to   mark 

what  is  done  amiss  :    O   Lord,   who  may 

abide  it  ? 
For  there  is  mercy  with  Thee  :  therefore  shalt 

Thou  be  feared. 
I   look  for  the   Lord  :  my  soul  doth  wait   for 

Him  ;  in  His  Word  is  my  trust. 
My  soul  fleeth  unto  the  Lord  :  before  the  morn- 
ing watch,  I  say,  before  the  morning  watch. 
O  Israel,  trust  in  the  Lord,  for  with  the  Lord 

there  is  mercy  :  and  with  Him  is  plenteous 

redemption. 
And  He  shall  redeem  Israel  :   from  all  his  sins. 
Glory  be  to  the  Father  and   to  the  Son  and 

to  the  Holy  Ghost. 
As  it  was  in   the  beginning,   is   now   and  ever 

shall  be,  world  without  end.     Amen. 

THE  Grace  >^  of  our  Lord,  Jesus  Christ, 
the  Love  of  God,  and  the  Fellowship  of 
the  Holy  Ghost  be  with  us  all  evermore. 
Amen. 

(On  the  viorning  of  connnunion^  use  the  private 
prayers  and  follow  the  service  as  set  forth ^  beginning 
page  1 06.) 


part  mill 

Occasional  ©ttices, 

IReaMngs,  /IDebltattons, 

auD  BppenMj 


183 


^ 


DAILY  PRAYERS 


IN  the  Ancient  Church,  the  faithful,  following 
the  words  of  the  psalmist,  "  In  the  evening 
and  mo7'ning  atid  at  noonday  will  I  pray  ^''  ' 
kept  the  third,  sixth  and  ninth  hours,  known  as 
the  Apostolical  Hours,  as  times  of  special  prayer. 
The  third  hour,  or  nine  o'clock,  commemo- 
rated the  time  when  our  Lord  was  Nailed  to 
the  Cross,  the  sixth  hour  or  twelve  o'clock,  the 
time  when  darkness  came  upon  the  earth,  the 
ninth  hour  or  three  o'clock  the  time  Christ 
Died.  In  the  Mediaeval  Church,  other  hours 
were  added  to  afford  the  Monastic  Orders  addi- 
tional opportunity  for  devotion.  These  were 
called  the  Seven  Canonical  Hours,  or  Mattins 
(Prime)  Lauds,  Terce,  Sext,  Nones,  Vespers 
and  Compline.  At  the  English  Reformation, 
while  the  observance  of  these  was  in  no  wise 
discountenanced,  a  return  was  made  to  the 
Primitive  Use  by  condensing  and  simplifying 
the  Seven  Mediaeval  Offices  into  the  Services  of 
Mattins  and  Evensong.  As  many  persons  will 
be  unable  to  attend  or  read  these  Daily  Offices, 
the  following  devotions  are  set  forth  to  be  used 
at  home  for  Family  or  Private  Prayer, 

1  Psalm  Iv.  i8. 

185 


1 86  DAII,Y  PRAYERS 

MORNING. 


N  the  Name  'i'  of  the  Father  and  of  the 
Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.    Amen. 


o 


UR  FATHER,  Who  art  in  Heaven,  etc. 


ALMIGHTY  God,  we  most  heartily  thank 
Thee  for  our  creation,  preservation  and 
all  the  blessings  of  this  life,  for  Thy  lov- 
ing care  and  watchful  providence  over  us  all  our 
days,  and  for  having  delivered  us  from  all  the 
dangers  and  perils  of  the  past  night,  but  above 
all  things  for  Thine  inestimable  love  in  the  re- 
demption of  the  world  by  our  Lord  and  Saviour 
Jesus  Christ,  for  the  means  of  Grace  and  for  the 
hope  of  Glory.  And  we  beseech  Thee  to  accept 
this  our  morning  sacrifice  of  praise  and  thanks- 
giving, continuing  these  Thy  blessings  to  us  and 
to  all  men,  and  taking  us  and  all  who  are  dear 
to  us  under  Thy  Fatherly  care  and  protection. 
More  especially  we  pray  Thee  to  give  us  the 
grace  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that  we,  being  un- 
feignedly  thankful,  may  show  forth  our  praise, 
not  only  with  our  lips  but  in  our  lives,  by  giving 
up  ourselves  to  Thy  service  and  by  walking  be- 
fore Thee  in  holiness  and  righteousness  all  our 
days:  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen, 

THE  grace  .^  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and 
the  Love  of  God  and  the  Fellowship  of 
the  Holy  Ghost  be  with  us  all  evermore. 
Afne?i. 

{^  If  time  permits  add  Prayer  beginning  page  192). 


DAII.Y    PRAYERS  187 

Morning  Hynnn 

New  every  morning  is  the  love 
Our  waking  and  uprising  prove  ; 
Through  sleep  and  darkness  safely  brought, 
Restored  to  life  and  power  and  thought. 


New  mercies  each  returning  day 

Hover  around  us  while  we  pray  ; 

New  perils  past,  new  sins  forgiven, 

New  thoughts  of  God,  new  hopes  of  heaven. 


If,  on  our  daily  course,  our  mind 
Be  set  to  hallow  all  we  find. 
New  treasures  still  of  countless  price 
God  will  provide  for  sacrifice. 

Old  friends,  old  scenes  will  lovelier  be 
As  more  of  heaven  in  each  we  see  ; 
Some  softening  gleam  of  love  and  prayer 
Shall  dawn  on  every  cross  and  care. 

The  trivial  round,  the  common  task 
Will  furnish  all  we  need  to  ask  ; 
Room  to  deny  ourselves,  a  road 
To  bring  us  daily  nearer  God. 

Only,  O  Lord,  in  Thy  dear  love, 
Fit  us  for  perfect  rest  above  ; 
And  help  us  this  and  every  day. 
To  live  more  nearly  as  we  pray.^ 

1  Hymn  i,  American  Hymnal. 


1 88  DAII.Y  PRAYERS 

NOON 

IN  the  Name  'i*  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son 
and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 


o 


UR  Father,  Who  art  in  Heaven,  etc. 


Lord,  Have  mercy  upon  us. 

Christ,  Have  mercy  upon  us. 
'Lord,  Have  mercy  upon  us. 

O  BLESSED  Jesus,  we  love  Thee,  we  adore 
Thee,  and  we  worship  Thee,  fastened  to 
the  Cross  for  us.  As  Thou  wast  nailed, 
stripped  and  crowned  with  thorns,  may  we  cru- 
cify all  vile  affections,  tear  off  our  robe  of  pride 
and  drive  away  all  vain  ambitions.  O  pray  for  us 
now  and  in  the  hour  of  our  death,  that  follow- 
ing the  Example  of  Thy  most  holy  Life,  we 
may  come  to  those  unspeakable  joys,  which 
Thou  hast  prepared  for  those  who  love  Thee, 
Who  with  the  Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost 
art  to  be  worshipped  and  glorified  unto  the  ages 
of  ages.     Amen. 

O   SAVIOUR  of   the    world.  Who  by   Thy 
Cross  and  Precious  Blood  hast  redeemed 
us,  save  us  and  help  us,  we  humbly  be- 
seech Thee,  O  Lord. 

THE  Grace "i*  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and 
the  Love  of  God  and  the  Fellowship  of  the 
Holy   Ghost  be  with  us   all  evermore. 
Amen. 


^'lAM    THE    GOOD    SHEPHERD.     THE 

GOOD    SHEPHERD    GIVETH    HIS 

LIFE    FOR    THE    SHEEP." 


DAIIvY  TRAYERS  189 


Midday  Hymn 

O  Jesu,  Crucified  for  man, 

O  Saint,  all  Glorious  on  Thy  throne, 
Teach  Thou  our  wandering  thoughts  to  scan 

The  Mystery  of  Thy  love  unknown. 

We  pray  Thee  grant  us  strength  to  take 

Our  daily  cross,  whate'er  it  be, 
And  gladly  for  Thine  Own  dear  Sake 

In  paths  of  pain  to  follow  Thee. 

As  on  our  daily  path  we  go, 

Through  light  or  shade,  in  calm  or  strife, 
O  !    May  we  bear  Thy  marks  below 

In  conquered  sin  and  chastened  life. 

And  week  by  week  this  day  we  ask 
That  holy  memories  of  Thy  Cross 

May  sanctify  each  common  task 
And  turn  to  gain  each  earthly  loss. 

Grant  us,  dear  Lord,  our  cross  to  bear 
Till  at  Thy  Feet  we  lay  it  down. 

Win  through  Thy  Blood  our  pardon  there, 
And  through  the  cross  attain  the  crown.  ^ 

^  Hymn  480,  A.  and  M. 


190  DAII,Y  PRAYERS 

EVENING 

TN  the  Name  4«  of  the  Father  and  of  the  Son 
and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 


L 


ET  my  prayer  be  set  forth  in  Thy  sight  as 
the  incense  and  let  the  lifting  up  of  my 
hands  be  an  evening  sacrifice. 


o 


UR  Father,  Who  art  in  Heaven,  etc. 


ALMIGHTY  and  most  Merciful  Father,  we 
humbly  pray  Thee  to  have  compassion 
upon  our  sins  and  infirmities,  and  grant 
that  we  being  sincerely  penitent  and  confessing 
them  unto  Thee,  by  Thine  Infinite  goodness 
and  mercy  may  obtain  forgiveness  of  the  same. 
And  we  beseech  Thee,  grant  us  Grace  so  to  re- 
sist the  deceits  of  the  world,  the  flesh  and  the 
devil,  that  we  may  live  to  Thine  Honour  and 
Glory  in  this  present  and  in  the  world  to  come 
attain  everlasting  life,  through  the  Merits  and 
Mediation  of  JesusChrist,  ourSAViouR.  Amen. 

ALMIGHTY  God,  we  most  heartily  thank 
Thee  for  Thy  goodness  and  loving  kind- 
ness to  us  and  to  all  men,  for  Thy  Fatherly 
care  and  protection  to  us  this  day  and  for  all 
the  many  blessings  of  the  same,  beseeching  Thee 
that  we  may  ever  love  and  praise  Thy  Holy 
Name  and  follow  Thee  all  the  days  of  our  life 
for  the  sake  of  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.    Amen. 

THE  Grace  ►!•  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
and  the  love  of  God  and  the  Fellowship 
of  the  Holy  Ghost  be  with  us  all  ever- 
more.    Amen. 


DAII.Y   PRAYERS  I9I 

Evening  Hymn 

All  praise  to  Thee,  my  God,  this  night, 
For  all  the  blessings  of  the  light. 
Keep  me,  O  keep  me.  King  of  Kings, 
Beneath  Thine  Own  Almighty  wings. 

Forgive  me.  Lord,  for  Thy  dear  Son 
The  ill  that  I  this  day  have  done  ; 
That  with  the  world,  myself  and  Thee 
I,  ere  I  sleep,  at  peace  may  be. 

Teach  me  to  live  that  I  may  dread 
The  grave  as  little  as  my  bed  ; 
Teach  me  to  die  that  so  I  may 
Rise  glorious  at  the  awful  day, 

O,  may  my  soul  on  Thee  repose. 
And  may  sweet  sleep  mine  eyelids  close ; 
Sleep  that  shall  me  more  vigorous  make 
To  serve  my  God  when  I  awake. 

When  in  the  night  I  sleepless  lie. 
My  soul  with  heavenly  thoughts  supply  ; 
Let  no  ill  dreams  disturb  my  rest, 
No  powers  of  darkness  me  molest. 

O,  when  shall  I  in  endless  day 
Forever  chase  dark  sleep  away. 
And  hymns  divine  with  angels  sing 
All  praise  to  Thee,  Eternal  King? 

Praise  God,  from  Whom  all  blessings  flow  ; 
Praise  Him,  all  creatures  here  below  ; 
Praise  Him  above,  angelic  host  ; 
Praise  Father,  SOxV,  and  Holy  Ghost,  ^ 

^  Hymn  18,  American  Hymnal, 


192  DAII,Y  PRAYERS 

ADDITIONAL    PRAYERS 

LIGHTEN  our  darkness,  we  beseech  Thee, 
O  Lord  ;  and  by  Thy  great  mercy  defend 
us  from   all   perils   and   dangers   of   this 
night ;  for  the  love  of  Thine  Only  Son  our  Sav- 
iour, Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 

I  WILL  lay  me  down  in  peace  and  take  my 
rest  for  it  is  Thou  Lord  Only  that  makest 
me  dwell  in  safety. 

DIRECT  us,  O  Lord,  in  all  our  doings  with 
Thy  most  gracious  favour  and  further  us 
with  Thy  continual  help,  that  in  all  our 
works  begun,  continued  and  ended  in  Thee  we 
may  glorify  Thy  Holy  Name,  and  finally  by  Thy 
mercy  obtain  everlasting  life  through  Jesus 
Christ,  our  Lord.     Amen. 

WE  beseech  Thee,  O  Lord,  pour  Thy  Grace 
into  our  hearts:  that  as  we  have  known 
the  Incarnation  of  Thy  Son  Jesus 
Christ  by  the  message  of  an  angel,  so  by  His 
Cross  and  Passion  we  may  be  brought  unto  the 
glory  of  His  Resurrection,  through  the  same 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord,     Amen. 

(For  Ourselves) 

OLORD  OF  SOULS,  Who  hast  chosen 
and  called  us  to  service  in  Thy  Church, 
all  our  trust  is  in  Thee,  for  in  Thee  are 
the  springs  of  our  life.  Abundantly  give  us  of 
Thy  Blessed  Spirit,  without  Whom  nothing  is 
strong,  nothing  is  holy  ;  and  use  us  as  it  shall 
please  Thee  for  the  Glory  of  Thy  Name.  Make 
our  will  patient,  our  conscience  pure,  our  temper 


DAII,Y  PRAYERS  I93 

bright.  Empty  us  of  self,  and  fill  us  with  the 
meekness  of  wisdom.  Increase  our  faith,  mel- 
low our  judgment,  stir  our  zeal,  enlarge  our 
heart.  Let  our  life  enforce  what  our  lips  utter. 
Do  Thou  choose  for  us  the  work  we  do  and  the 
place  in  which  we  do  it  ;  the  success  we  win  and 
the  harvest  we  reap.  Preserve  us  from  jealousy 
and  impatience,  from  self-will  and  depression. 
Make  us  faithful  unto  death  and  then  give  us  the 
crown  of  life.  All  of  which  we  ask  for  Jesus 
Christ's  sake.     Amt-n.^ 

(For  Others) 

OMOST  Merciful  Father,  look  with  pity, 
we  beseech  Thee,  upon  all  those  in  sorrow, 
trouble,  sickness,  or  distress,  relieving 
them  according  to  their  several  necessities,  or 
else  giving  them  patience  to  bear  their  troubles  ; 
remember  in  mercy  all  sinners  and  criminals 
and  all  who  have  erred  and  strayed  from  Thy 
ways,  giving  them  repentance  and  better  minds  ; 
have  compassion  upon  all  men,  and  pour  into 
their  hearts  such  love  towards  Thee  that  they 
may  turn  from  their  wickedness  and  follow 
Thee,  the  Only  God,  for  the  sake  of  our  Lord 
and  Redeemer,  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 

(For  the  Church  and  Parish) 

ALMIGHTY   and    Everlasting    God,    Who 
dost   govern    all    things    in   Heaven    and 
Earth,    mercifully   hear  the  prayers  and 
supplications  of   Thy  people  ;  and   grant   unto 
the  Church  all  things  that  are  needful  for  her 
spiritual  and  temporal  welfare.     Strengthen  and 

'  Adapted  from  Bishop  Thorold. 
13 


194  DAII,Y  PRAYERS 

confirm  the  faithful  ;  visit  and  relieve  the  sick  ; 
turn  and  soften  the  wicked  ;  rouse  the  careless  ; 
raise  the  fallen  ;  restore  the  penitent  ;  remove 
all  hindrances  to  the  advancement  of  Thy 
truth  and  bring  all  to  be  of  one  heart  and  one 
soul  within  the  fold  of  Thy  Holy  Church, 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  Who  liveth 
and  reigneth  with  Thee  in  the  Unity  of  the 
Holy  Ghost,  ever  One  God  world  without 
end.     Atnen. 

(Confession  of  Sin) 

O  ALMIGHTY  God,  Father,  Son  and 
Holy  Ghost,  I  humbly  confess  unto 
Thee  that  I  have  sinned  against  Thee  this 
day  by  thought,  word  and  deed,  by  omission 
and  commission,  by  my  fault,  my  own  fault, 
my  own  most  grievous  fault,  and  especially 
{here  name  your  sins. . . .).  Forgive  me,  I  be- 
seech Thee,  and  mercifully  grant  that  loving 
Thee  above  all  things,  I  may  hate  all  that  is  sin- 
ful, and  henceforth  live  to  Thine  Honour  and 
Glory.     Amen. 

LET  the  words  of  my  mouth  and  the  medi- 
tation of  my  heart  be  alway  acceptable  in 
Thy  sight,  O  Lord  :  my  Strength  and  my 
Redeemer. 


DAIIvY  PRAYERS  1 95 

DEVOTIONS  FOR  THE  HOURS 

{Partly  adapted fro7n  ancient  sources) 


THE  THIRD  HOUR 
9  o'clock  A.M. 

^^  And   it  was  the  third  hour  and  they  Crucified 
HimJ'^     S.  Mark  xv.  25. 

IN  the  Name  -i*  of  the  Father,  and  of  the 
Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 

Now  that  the  daylight  fills  the  sky 
We  lift  our  hearts  to  God  on  high, 
That  He  in  all  we  do  or  say, 
May  keep  us  free  from  sin  to-day. 

O  Father,  fill  our  hearts  with  love 
That  we  may  seek  the  things  above, 
Extinguish  Thou  each  sinful  fire 
And  banish  every  wrong  desire. 

O  Father,  that  we  ask  be  done 
Through  Jesus  Christ,  Thine  Only  Son, 
Who  with  the  Holy  Ghost  and  Thee 
Doth  live  and  reign  eternally. 

O   BLESSED  Jesus,  Who  at  this  hour  wast 
nailed  unto  the  Cross,  grant  us  henceforth 
so  to  crucify  to  ourselves  all  that  draws 
us  away  from  Thee,  that  serving  and  pleasing 
Thee  in  this  life,  we  may  rise  to  the  Life  Im- 
mortal.    Amen. 


196  DAII,Y   PRAYERS 

UR  Father,  Who  art  in  Heaven,  etc. 


o 


BELIEVE  in  God,  etc. 


Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

DIRECT  us,  O  Lord,  in  all  our  doings  with 
Thy  most  gracious  favour  and  further  us 
with  Thy  continual  help,  that  in  all  our 
works  begun,  continued  and  ended  in  Thee,  we 
may  glorify  Thy  holy  Name,  and  finally  by  Thy 
mercy  obtain  everlasting  life  through  Jesus 
Christ,  our  Lord.     Amen. 

MAY  the  Lord  of  His  Mercy  grant  unto  us 
and  all  of  His  faithful  servants  rest  and 
peace.     Amen. 

THE  Grace  ^  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
and  the  Love  of  God  and  the  Fellowship  of 
the  Holy  Ghost  be  with  us  all  evermore. 
Amen. 


DAII,Y   PRAYERS  I97 


THE  SIXTH  HOUR 

Noon 

''''And  when  the  sixth  hour  was  come  there  was  dark- 
ness over  all  the  land^     S.  Mark  xv.  33. 

IN  the  Name  "i*  of  the  Father,  and  of  the 
Son  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 

O  Lord,  Ahuighty  King  of  Kings, 
Creator  of  created  things. 
Who  from  the  morn  till  even's  ray 
Through  every  change  dost  guide  the  day. 

Grant  us,  when  this  short  life  is  past. 
The  glorious  evening  that  shall  last. 
When  by  a  holy  life  attained, 
Eternal  Glory  shall  be  gained. 

O  Father,  that  we  ask  be  done 
Through  Jesus  Christ,  Thine  Only  Son, 
Who  with  the  Holy  Ghost  and  Thee 
Shall  live  and  reign  eternally. 

O  GRACIOUS  Saviour,  Who  didst  bear  our 
sins  upon  the  Tree,  and  didst  hang  upon 
the  Cross  in  the  dense  darkness  of  Cal- 
vary, be  Thou  our  Light  amid  all  the  changes 
and  chances  of  this  mortal  life,  that  looking  unto 
Thee,  the  Author  of  our  salvation,  we,  in  the 
world  to  come,  may  rest  in  the  Glory  of  the 
heavenly  mansions  which  Thou  hast  prepared  for 
those  who  unfeignedly  love  Thee.     Amen. 


198  SHORT  PRAYERS 

UR  Father,  Who  art  in  Heaven,  etc. 


o 


BELIEVE  in  God,  etc. 


Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us, 

Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 


O  SAVIOUR  of  the  world,  Who  by  Thy  Cross 
and  Precious  Blood  hast  redeemed  us, 
save  us  and  help  us,  we  humbly  beseech 
Thee,  O  Lord.     Amen. 


M 


AY  the  Lord  of  His  Mercy  grant  unto  us 
and  all  of  His  faithful  servants  rest  and 
peace.     Amen, 


THE  Grace  i^  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
and  the  Love  of  God,  and  the  Fellowship 
of  the  HoLV  Ghost  be  with  us  all  ever- 
more.    Amen. 


SHORT  PRAYERS  199 

THE  NINTH  HOUR. 

?  o'clock,  p.  M. 

''^  And  at  the  ninth  hoiif  jESUS  cried  with  a  loudvoice 
,    .     .    and  gave  up  the  Ghosts — S.  Mark  xv.  34-37. 

IN  the  Name  ^^  of  the  Father,  and  of  the 
Son  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 

As  now  the  sun's  declining  rays 

Towards  the  eve  descend, 
Go  life's  brief  day  is  sinking  down 

To  its  appointed  end. 

Lord,  on  the  Cross  Thine  Arms  were 
stretched 

To  draw  us  to  the  sky; 
O  grant  us  then  the  Cross  to  love 

And  in  those  Arms  to  die. 

To  God  the  Father,  God  the  Son, 
And  God  the  Holy  Ghost, 

All  Glory  be  from  Saints  on  earth 
And  from  the  Angel  Host.' 

O  LOVING  Master,  Who  at  this  hour  didst 
commend  Thy  Spirit  into  the  Hands  of 
the  Heavenly  Father  and  didst  die  upon 
the  Cross  for  us,  so  assist  us  with  Thy  Grace,  and 
wash  us  in  Thy  Blood,  now  and  in  the  hour  of 
our  death,  that  at  the  last  day  we  may  be  received 
into  Thine  everlasting  Kingdom,  where  the  souls 
of  the  faithful  departed  rest  in  peace,  to  reign 
with  Thee  in  heavenly  Glory  unto  the  ages  of 
ages.     Amen. 

*  Paris  Breviarj'. 


20O  SHORT  PRAYERS 

/'~\UR  Father,  Who  art  in  Heaven,  etc. 

T  BELIEVE  in  God,  etc. 


Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

STIR  up,   O  Lord,   we  beseech   Thee,  the 
wills   of   Thy  faithful  people,    that    they 
plenteously  bringing  forth  the  fruit  of  good 
works  may  by  Thee  be  plenteously  rewarded. 
A7ne7t. 


MAY  the  Lord  of  His  Mercy  grant  unto  us 
and  all  of  His  faithful  servants  rest  and 
peace.     Amen. 


THE  Grace  «^  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
and  the  Love  of  God,  and  the  Fellowship 
of  the  Holy  Ghost  be  with  us  all  ever- 
more.    Amen. 


SHORT  SILENT  PRAYERS 

{It  is  helpful  to  offer  up  ejaculatory  or  silent  prayer 
to  God  as  a  jneans  of  remembering  GOD'S  Presence 
and  coviforting  ourselves.) 


On  arising:  "  I  laid  me  down  and  slept  and 
rose  up  again,  for  the  Lord  sustained 
me." 

On  hearing  a  clock:  "Watch  therefore,  for  ye 
know  neither  the  day  nor  the  hour  where- 
in the  Son  of  Man  Cometh."  ' 

When  tempted:  "  Let  the  words  of  my  mouth 
and  the  meditation  of  my  heart  be  alway 
acceptable  in  Thy  Sight,  O  Lord,  my 
Strength  and  my  Redeemer."  ^ 

"  Lead  us  not  into  temptation,  but  de- 
liver us  from  evil." 

In  danger:   "I  will  lift  up  mine  eyes  unto  the 
hills  :  from  whence  cometh  my  help."  ^ 
"  The  Lord  Himself  is  thy  keeper."  ■* 

In  doubt:  "In  Thee,  O  Lord,  have  I  put  my 
trust."  ^ 

"  Lord,  I  believe  ;  help  Thou  my  un- 
belief." '' 

^  S.  Matthew  xxv.  13.  *  Psalm  cxxi.  5. 

2  Psalm  xix.  14-15.  "  Psalm  Ixxi.  i. 

3  Psalm  cxxi.  i.  ®  S.  Mark  ix.  24. 

201 


202  SHORT  SII^KNT  PRAYERS 

In  sickness:  "  Thou  shalt  not  be  afraid  for  any 
terror  by  night  .  .  .  nor  for  the  sick- 
ness that  destroyeth  in  the  noonday."  ' 

"Father,  if  Thou  be  willing,  remove 
this  cup  from  me.  Nevertheless,  not  my 
will  but  Thine  be  done."  ^ 

At  sea:  "  It  is  the  Lord  that  commandeth  the 

waters."  ^ 

"  Thou  rulest  the  raging  of  the  sea."  ^ 
"He  maketh   the  storm   to  cease:   so 

that  the  waves  thereof  are  still     .     .     . 

and  so   He  bringeth  them  to  the   haven 

where  they  would  be."  ^ 

When  travelling:  "The  Lord  preserve  my  go- 
ing out  and  coming  in  from  this  time 
forth  forevermore." 

At  a  beatitifiil  scene:  "  The  heavens  declare  the 
Glory  of  God  and  the  firmament  showeth 
His  handiwork."  ^ 

"O  Lord,  how  manifold  are  Thy 
works :  in  wisdom  Thou  hast  made  them 
all :  the  earth  is  full  of  Thy  riches."  '' 

"  O  that  men  would  therefore  praise 
the  Lord  for  His  Goodness  and  declare 
the  wonders  that  He  doeth  for  the  children 
of  men."  ^ 

To  recollect  God's  Presence:  "  Be  still  then  and 
know  that  I  am  GOD."  * 

"Unto  Thee,  O  Lord,  will  I  lift  up 
my  soul."  '" 

*  Psalm  xci.  part  5  and  6.  ®    Psalm  xix.  i. 
'  S.  Luke  xxii.  42.  ^    Psalm  civ.  24. 
3  Psalm  xxix.  3  ®    Psalm  cvii.  31. 

*  Psalm  Ixxxix.  part  10.  *    Psalm  xlvi.  10. 
"  Psalm  cvii.  29-30.  ^^  Psalm  xxv,  i. 


SHORT  SII,ENT   PRAYERS  203 

Before  sleeping:   "  Father,  into  Thy  Hands  I 
commend  my  spirit."  ' 

At  a  Funeral : 

"  Lord,  all  pitying,  Jesu  Blest, 
Grant  them  Thine  Eternal  Rest." 

"  Teach  me  to  live  that  I  may  dread 
The  grave  as  little  as  my  bed. 
Teach  me  to  die  that  so  I  may 
Rise  glorious  at  the  Judgment  Day."* 

*    S.  Luke  xxiii.  46.  ^  Bishop  Ken. 


INTERCESSION 


OUR  Blessed  Lord  in  His  Life  and  Death 
set  us  the  example  and  taught  us  the 
virtue  of  praying  for  others,  and  now  in 
His  Glory  at  the  Right  Hand  of  the  Father  in 
Heaven,  " //t'  evo'  liveth  to  make  intercession 
for  us.''  ^  To  be  like  Him  we  must  obey  His 
words:  ''pray  one  for  another.''  ^  Then  the  Voice 
of  Jesus  will  speak  in  us,  and  we  as  well  as 
those  for  whom  we  pray  will  be  blessed  in  our 
intercessions  at  the  Throne  of  Grace.  Either 
our  own  devotions  or  liturgical  prayers  may  be 
used,  or  we  may  simply  make  mention  of  our 
desired  petitions  and  say  the  Lord's  Prayer 
with  intention.  The  following  Short  Office  may 
be  found  helpful. 

OFFICE  OF  INTERCESSION 

I  N  the  Name  ^  of   the  Father  and   of  the 
I      Son  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 


o 


UR  FATHER,  Who  art  in  Heaven,  etc. 


Lord,  Have  mercy  upon  us. 

Christ,  Have  mercy  upon  us. 
Lord,  Have  mercy  upon  us. 

*  Hebrews  vii.  25.  ^  S.  James  v.  16. 

204 


INTERCESSION  205 

ALMIGHTY  God,  Ruler  of  all  things  and 
Giver  of  all  good  gifts,  look  with  mercy, 
we  beseech  Thee,  upon  us  Thy  servants 
and  hearken  to  our  prayers  which  we  offer  unto 
Thee  for  all  Estates  in  the  Catholic  Church, 
granting  them  all  such  things  as  Thou  seest  to 
be  best  for  them.  And  especially  we  pray  Thee, 
look  with  compassion  and  regard  with  favour 
Thy  Holy  Church  Universal,  the  Anglican  Com- 
munion, our  Bishops  and  other  Clergy,  our  Mis- 
sions throughout  the  world,  our  country  and 
rulers,  our  families  and  friends,  our  enemies  and 
detractors,  the  poor  and  afflicted,  the  sick 
and  sorrowful,  the  dead  and  dying,  all  sinners  and 
criminals,  those  in  danger  or  peril,  in  trial  and 
temptation,  and  all  others  for  whom  we  ought 
to  pray.  Grant  all  to  turn  to  Thee  in  faith, 
love,  and  repentance,  that  steadfastly  serving 
Thee  in  this  world,  they  may  reign  with  Thee 
in  Glory  in  the  world  to  come.  All  of  which  we 
ask  through  the  Merits  and  Mediation  of  Jesus 
Christ,  Thine  Only  Son,  our  Lord.     Amen. 

O   SAVIOUR  of  the  World,  Who  by  Thy 
Cross  and  Precious  Blood  hast  Redeemed 
us,  save  us  and  help  us  we  humbly  be- 
seech Thee,  O  Lord.     Amen. 

(Or  the  following  may  be  said: ) 

ALMIGHTY  God,  Whose  Kingdom  is  Ever- 
lasting and  Whose  Power  is  Infinite,  from 
Whom  Cometh  every  good  and  perfect 
gift,  look  with  compassion,  we  beseech  Thee, 
upon  those  for  whom  we  desire  Thy  heavenly 
blessing.  Regard  not  their  offences  or  short- 
comings, but  raise  up  the  Arm  of  Thy  Power 


2o6  INTERCESSION 

and  come  among  them,  granting  them  all  such 
things  as  Thou  seest  them  to  need  or  is  best  for 
them.  Grant,  O  Lord,  that  Thy  Holy  Church 
Universal  may  be  ruled  and  governed  in  the 
right  way,  bringing  all  to  be  of  one  heart  and 
mind  within  her  borders.  Bless  the  Anglican 
Communion,  that  earnestly  contending  for  the 
Faith  once  delivered  to  the  Saints,  she  may  win 
many  souls  to  Thine  Honour  and  Glory.  Prosper 
all  Missions,  that  the  number  of  Thine  elect  may 
soon  be  accomplished.  Illuminate  all  Bishops 
and  other  Clergy  {^especially  .  .  .  )  that  by  their 
preaching  and  living  they  may  set  forward  the 
salvation  of  all  men  and  be  faithful  ministers  of 
Thy  Word  and  Sacraments.  Watch  over  our 
country  that  it  may  be  preserved  from  all  dan- 
ger and  peril,  and  our  rulers  that  they  may 
govern  righteously  and  holily.  Have  mercy 
upon  our  families  {especially  .  .  .  )  and  friends 
{especially  .  .  .  ),  granting  them  health  and  happi- 
ness, and  rich  measure  of  Thy  Grace  to  live  ac- 
cording to  Thy  Word  and  Commandments. 
Have  pity  upon  our  enemies,  and  bring  all  Thy 
people  to  dwell  here  in  love  and  charity.  Look 
with  compassion  upon  the  poor,  the  afflicted,  the 
sick  and  the  suffering  {especially  .  .  .  ),  relieving 
them  according  to  their  several  necessities,  or 
else  giving  them  patience  to  bear  their  troubles. 
Give  Thy  Heavenly  comfort  to  the  dying  and 
wash  them  from  all  their  sins  in  the  Precious 
Blood  of  Jesus.  Remember  the  dear  departed 
and  let  them  rest  in  peace,  and  let  light  per- 
petual shine  upon  them.  Look  upon  all  sinners 
and  criminals  and  bring  them  to  repentance  and 
better  minds.  Regard  those  that  are  in  danger 
and  peril  and  raise  up  Thy  might  to  save  and 
succour  them.     Help  those  in  trial  and  tempta- 


INTERCESSION  207 

tion  and  suffer  them  not  to  faint  or  falter  in 
their  hour  of  need.  Drive  out  from  us  all  crime 
and  corruption  and  make  all  Thy  children  to 
worship  Thee  in  spirit  and  in  truth.  O  Most 
Merciful  Father,  grant  these  petitions,  we  be- 
seech Thee,  and  give  to  us  who  have  prayed  and 
to  those  for  whom  we  pray  the  Grace  of  Thy 
Holy  Spirit,  that  henceforth  we  may  walk  be- 
fore Thee  in  holiness  and  righteousness  and  be 
brought  to  those  heavenly  mansions,  where 
with  Thine  Only  Begotten  Son  and  Thy  Most 
Holy  Spirit  Thou  art  to  be  worshipped,  hon- 
oured and  glorified  unto  the  ages  of  ages.    A  men. 


PRAYERS  BEFORE  A  JOURNEY 

{Considerably  adapted /rovi  the  Ancient  Itinerarium.) 


IN  the  Name  ^i*  of  the  Father  and  of  the  Son 
and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 

Antiphon :  Into  the  way  of  peace  and  pros- 
perity. 

The  Benedictus.     S.  Luke  i,  68-79. 

Antiphon:  Into  the  way  of  peace  and  prosper- 
ity, may  the  Almighty  and  Merciful  GoD 
direct  us  that  we  may  return  to  our  homes 
in  joy  arid  happiness. 


o 


UR  Father,  Who  art  in  Heaven,  etc. 


Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

O  Lord,  save  Thy  servants. 

Who  put  their  trust  in  Thee. 
Be  unto  us,  O  Lord,  a  strong  tower. 

From  the  enemy  deliver  us. 
Let  no  evil  approach  to  harm  us,  O  Lord. 

But  guard  us  from  all  danger  and  peril. 

208 


PRAYERS  BEFORE  A  JOURNEY         209 

Blessed  be  the  Lord,  our  Governuur. 

May  our  journey  be  safe  and  prosperous. 
Show  us  Thy  ways,  O  LORD. 

And  teach  us  Thy  paths. 
O  that  our  ways  may  be  so  direct 

That  we  may  ever  keep  Thy  Statutes. 
O  God,  give  Thine  Angels  charge  concerning  us 

To  keep  us  in  all  Thy  ways. 
O  Lord,  hear  our  prayer. 

And  let  our  cryittg  come  unto  Thee. 

OGOD,  Who  didst  guide  the  children  of 
Israel  by  a  pillar  of  cioud  and  fire,  and 
didst  lead  the  Wise  Men  by  the  shining 
of  a  star,  be  to  us,  we  beseech  Thee,  a  Light  to 
lighten  our  darkness.  And  if  it  be  Thy  will, 
grant  us  a  safe  and  prosperous  journey,  a  bright 
and  happy  time,  a  safe  arrival  at  the  place  where 
we  would  be  and  in  Thy  good  season  bring  us 
to  the  haven  of  eternal  salvation,  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

OLORD,  we  beseech  Thee,  take  us  Thy 
servants  under  Thy  loving  care  and  pro- 
tection. Be  to  us  a  light  in  setting  out, 
a  comfort  in  the  way,  a  shadow  in  the  heat,  a 
covering  from  the  cold,  a  refuge  from  the  storm, 
a  chariot  in  weariness,  a  protection  in  danger,  a 
staff  in  slippery  places,  that  through  Thy  guid- 
ance we  may  reach  our  journey's  end  in  safety 
and  return  to  our  homes  in  peace,  through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

ASSIST  us  mercifully,  O  Lord,  in  these  our 
prayers  and  supplication^,  and  dispose  the 
way  of  Thy  servants  t3,vr-.is  the  attain- 
ment of  everlasting  salvation  ;  that  among  all 


2IO         PRAYERS  BEFORE  A  JOURNEY 

the  changes  and  chances  of  this  mortal  life  we 
may  ever  be  defended  by  Thy  most  gracious  and 
ready  help  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
A  men. 

Let  us  go  forth  in  peace. 

In  the  N'ame  of  the  Lord,  Amen. 

{On  returning.) 

MOST  gracious  Lord,  Whose  mercy  is  over 
all  Thy  works,  we  praise  Thy  Holy 
Name  that  Thou  hast  been  pleased  to 
conduct  in  safety  through  the  perils  of  the  great 
deep  {o}'  of  the  land)  us.  Thy  servants,  who 
now  desire  to  return  thanks  unto  Thee.  May 
we  be  duly  sensible  of  Thy  Merciful  Providence 
towards  us,  and  ever  express  our  thankfulness 
by  a  holy  trust  in  Thee,  and  obedience  to  Thy 
laws,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

{A  Prayer  for  others.') 

O  ETERNAL  God,  Who  alone  spreadest 
out  the  Heavens,  and  rulest  the  raging  of 
the  sea,  and  ever  watchest  with  Thy  Lov- 
ing Eye :  we  commend  to  Thine  Almighty  Pro- 
tection Thy  servants  for  whose  preservation  on 
the  great  deep  (or  on  the  land)  we  pray.  Guard 
them  we  beseech  Thee  from  all  dangers  which 
may  await  them,  from  sickness,  from  the  vio- 
lence of  enemies,  and  from  every  evil  to  which 
they  may  be  exposed.  Conduct  them  in  safety 
to  the  haven  where  they  would  l)e,  with  a  grate- 
ful sense  of  all  Thy  Mercies,  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lo.  d.     Amen. 


CONFIRMATION 


CONFIRMATION  is  not  lightly  to  be  en- 
tered upon,  but  should  be  carefully  pre- 
pared   for.      The    whole    being,     mind, 
body,  and   soul,  should   be  fitted  for  the  new- 
privileges.     This  preparation  may  be  indicated 
by  the  following  : 

(i)  The  preparation  of  the  body:  This  is  the 
withdrawing  from  all  delights  or  pleasures  which 
appeal  to  our  lower  nature,  or  draw  us  away  from 
spiritual  things.  It  is  specially  guarding  against 
the  temptations  of  the  flesh.  In  the  case  of  an 
adult,  fasting  is  expected  as  in  Baptism.'  Fast- 
ing is  by  Divine  command  and  experience  has 
proved  it  most  helpful  in  the  cultivation  of  the 
spiritual  life. 

(2)  The  preparation  of  the  mind:  This  is  two- 
fold, first  looking  away  from  the  temptations  of 
the  world,  secondly  contemplating  the  things  of 
God.  The  mind  must  be  emptied  of  worldly 
thoughts,  and  filled  with  the  teachings  of  the 
Church.  These  are  generally  summed  up  in 
the  Catechism,  which  should  be  known  and 
understood.  The  Office  of  Confirmation,  which 
explains  itself,   should  also  be   read   over,   and 

^  See  Rubric  in  Baptismal  Office. 

211 


212  CONIJ^IRMATION 

Instructions  like  or  similar  to  those  in  this  little 
book  should  be  studied. 

(3)  The  preparation  of  the  soul:  This  is  on  the 
one  hand  resisting  the  deceits  of  the  Devil,  and 
on  the  other  the  cultivation  of  faith,  hope,  and 
charity.  It  implies  Conversion,  which  is  simply 
the  turning  towards  GoD  and  seeking  to  do  His 
Will.  This  is  shown  in  the  desire  to  be  con- 
firmed. The  preparation  of  the  soul  is  also 
assisted  by  self-examination,  prayer,  and  con- 
fession of  sin.  The  Forms  for  preparing  for 
Holy  Communion  will  be  found  helpful,  as  those 
Confirmed  are  expected  shortly  afterwards  to 
make  a  First  Communion.  The  following  Office 
may  also  be  used. 

SHORT   DAILY   OFFICE    IN    PREPARA- 
TION  FOR   CONFIRMATION 

TN  the  Name  "i*  of  the  Father  and  of  the  Son 
and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 


V 

o 


ENI  Creator.     See  page  85. 

UR  Father,  Who  art  in  Heaven,  ete. 


¥  BELIEVE  in  God,  etc. 

{Here  say  Psalms  xv.^   jcxv.,  xxiii.^   Ixxxiv.^  cxxi.^ 
cxxii.^  cxz'x.,  Ixiii.^  one  or  all  as  time  permits^ 

DIRECT  US,  O  Lord,  in  all  our  doings,  with 
Thy  Most  Gracious  Favour  and  further  us 
with  Thy  continual  help  (and  especially  in 
this  my  preparation  for  receiving  the  Sacrament 


CONFIRMATION  213 

of  Confirmation),  that  in  all  our  works,  begun, 
continued  and  ended  in  Thee,  we  may  glorify 
Thy  Holy  Name  and  finally  by  Thy  Mercy  ob- 
tain everlasting  life,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Lord.     Amen. 

WE  beseech  Thee,  O  Lord,  pour  Thy  Grace 
into  our  hearts  that  as  we  have  known  the 
Incarnation  of  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ 
by  the  message  of  an  Angel,  so  by  His  Cross  and 
Passion  we  may  be  brought  unto  the  Glory  of 
His  Resurrection,  through  the  same  Jesus 
Christ,  our  Lord.     Amen. 

O  ALMIGHTY  Lord,  and  everlasting  God, 
vouchsafe,  we  beseech  Thee,  to  direct, 
sanctify,  and  govern,  both  our  hearts  and 
bodies,  in  the  ways  of  Thy  laws,  and  in  the 
works  of  Thy  commandments  ;  that,  through 
Thy  most  mighty  protection,  both  here  and  ever, 
we  may  be  preserved  in  body  and  soul,  through 
our  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 

OGOD  Who  didst  teach  the  hearts  of  Thy 
faithful  people  by  sending  to  them  the 
light  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  grant  us  by 
the  same  Spirit  to  have  a  right  judgment  in  all 
things  and  evermore  to  rejoice  in  His  Holy 
Comfort,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

OMY  God,  I  believe  in  Thee,  I  hope  in 
Thee,  I  love  Thee,  and  I  am  sorry  that  I 
have  so  often  offended  Thee  by  my  sins. 

THE  grace  "i*  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  and 
the  Love  of  God  and  the  Fellowship  of  the 
Holy  Ghost,  be  with  us  all  evermore. 
Amen. 


A  FORM  OF  CONFESSION  TO  GOD 

{In  the  presence  of  a  Priest.) 


IN  the  Name  "i*  of  the  Father  and  of  the  Son 
and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 

Penitent :  Father,  give  me  thy  blessing,  for  I 
have  sinned. 

Priest:  The  Lord  be  with  thy  heart  and  lips 
that  thou  mayst  humbly  and  faithfully 
confess  thy  sins,  in  the  Name  of  the 
Father  and  of  the  Son  and  of  the  Holy 
Ghost.     Amen. 

confession 

Penitent :  I  confess  unto  God  Almighty,  the 
Father,  the  Son  and  the  Holy  Ghost, 
Three  Persons  in  One  God,  and  to  you, 
father,  that  I  have  sinned  exceedingly  by 
thought,  word  and  deed,  through  my  fault, 
my  own  fault,  my  own  most  grievous  fault, 
and  especially  (since  my  last  confession)  I 
accuse  myself 

{Here  follows  the  detailed  confession^ 

For  these  and  all  my  other  sins  which  I  can- 
not now  remember  or  know  not  of,  I  am 
heartily  sorry  and  most  firmly  purpose 
amendment,  humbly  asking  of  God  pardon 

214 


A   FORM  OF  CONFESSION  TO   GOD      215 

and  forgiveness,  with  space  to  lead  a  better 
life,  and  of  you,  my  father,  penance,  coun- 
sel and  absolution.  Wherefore  I  beseech 
Gon,  the  Father  Almighty,  His  Only  Be- 
gotten Son,  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  Holy 
Ghost  to  have  mercy  upon  me,  and  you 
father,  to  pray  for  me  unto  the  Lord. 
Amen. 

{Then  answer  the /oliowing questions.) 

Priest  Dost  thou  truly  repent  of  all  thy  sins, 
with  a  firm  purpose  to  commit  them  no 
more? 

Hast  thou  true  faith  in  God's  Mercy 
through  Christ,  that  He  is  ever  ready  to 
pardon  thee  ? 

Art  thou  in  love  and  charity  with  all 
men,  forgiving  as  thou  dost  hope  to  be  for- 
given ? 

THE    ABSOLUTION. 

MAY  the  Almighty  Lord  grant  thee  absolu- 
tion and  remission  of  all  thy  sins,  space 
for  amendment  of  life,   and   grace   and 
comfort  of  His  Holy  Spirit. 

OUR  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Who  hath  left 
power  to  His  Church  to  absolve  all  sin- 
ners who  truly  repent  and  believe  in  Him, 
of  His  great  Mercy  forgive  thee  thine  offences. 
And  by  His  Authority  committed  unto  me,  I 
absolve  thee  from  all  thy  sins  in  the  Name  of  the 
Father  and  of  the  Son  and  of  the  Holy 
Ghost.     Amen. 

[Then  make  an  Act  of  Contrition  {beginning  page  94) 
and  use  the  Devotions  {beginning page  98)  and  add  Psalm 
ciii.  as  a  Thanksgiving  for  Absolution^ 


SPIRITUAL  COMMUNION 


(/«  case  of  sickness  or  in  the  event  of  residing  -where 
the  Holy  Eucharist  is  rarely  celebrated^  a  spiritual 
communion  may  be  made  with  comfort  and p7'ofit,) 

IN  the  Name  •J*  of  the  Father  and  of  the  Son 
and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 

Antiphon  ':     O  that  men  would  praise  the  Lord 
for  His  Goodness. 

{Here  say  Psalm  xliii^  on  page  107.) 

Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 


o 


UR  Father,  Who  art  in  Heaven,  etc. 


Antiphon  :  O  that  men  would  praise  the  Lord 
for  His  Goodness  and  declare  the  wonders 
that  He  doeth  for  the  children  of  men  ! 

( Then  read  the  Collect^  the  Epistle^  the  Gospel^  the 
Creed y  the  Prayer  for  the  Church  and  the  Confession 
as  set  forth  in  the  Office  of  Holy  Communion^  and  in 
place  of  what  then  follows  say  /) 

OMOST  Blessed  Saviour,  I  cannot  now  re- 
ceive Thee  in  the  Holy  Mysteries,  but  I 
raise  my  soul  unto  Thee  and  pray  that 
Thou  wilt  visit  me  in  mercy  and  forgiveness. 

216 


SPIRITUAI,   COMMUNION  217 

O  cleanse  me  from  sin  and  grant  unto  me  Thy 
Grace,  so  that  being  made  one  with  Thee  on 
earth,  I  may  be  Thine  forever  in  the  world  to 
come.     Amen. 

{A  feiu  minutes  shotild  be  spent  in  thinking  0/  the 
Sacrifice  of  CHRIST  and  of  the  benefits  received  in  the 
Holy  Sacrament  of  His  BODY  and  BLOOD.  Then  con- 
clude by  saying  the  LORD'S  Prayer ,  the  Gloria  in  Ex- 
celsis,  and  Psalm  xxiii.) 

THE  Grace  "i*  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and 
the  Love  of  God  and  the  Fellowship  of  the 
Holy  Ghost  be  with  us   all   evermore. 
Amen. 


MEDITATIONS 

ON    THE 

HOLY  COMMUNION 

{^These  may  be  used  at  anytime^  or  specially  at  the 
seasons  designated.  The  thoughts  suggested  may  be  ex- 
panded as  devotion  directs  or  tijne  permits.  It  would 
be  helpful  to  meditate  in  this  way  before  each  Com- 
munion.) 

The  Apostles  had  a  daily  Eucharist,  and  that 
must  ever  be  the  ideal  of  the  Christian.  Fre- 
quent Communions  should  increase  our  love  and 
devotion  and  so  make  it  easier  to  make  a  careful 
preparation.  The  spiritual  life  needs  Sacra- 
mental Food  as  much  as  the  body  requires  nat- 
ural food,  and  it  is  a  grievous  loss  to  the  soul, 
whenever  attendance  for  worship  is  substituted 
for  Communion.  To  offer  the  Eucharistic  Sac- 
rifice necessarily  involves  actual  Communion. 
Otherwise  the  Offering  is  incomplete.  While 
only  the  Celebrating  Priest  is  subject  to  the  ob- 
ligation to  receive,  it  should  be  clearly  realized 
by  all  others  who  are  present,  that  without  Com- 
munion they  may  join  in  the  worship  but  cannot 
assist  at  the  Offering.  This  is  a  primary  princi- 
ple of  Sacramental  teaching.  In  the  Celebrat- 
ing Priest  and  in  those  who  communicate  with 
him,  we  see  those  who  are  actually  offering, 
those  who  are  engaged  in  the  supreme  act  of  our 
most  holy  religion.      In  others  who  are  present, 

2lS 


MEDITATIONS  219 

we  see  those  who  as  members  of  the  Church  are 
assembled  at  the  great  Offering  of  her  solemn 
Oblation,  to  join  in  the  Prayers  of  the  Church, 
to  worship  the  Lord  of  the  Church.  Such  pre- 
sence can  never  be  without  help  and  profit  both 
to  the  Church  and  to  the  individual,  and  it  is 
strongly  to  be  commended,  especially  when  one 
has  already  received  the  Sacrament  at  an  Early 
Celebration  or  has  found  it  impossible  then  to 
attend.  Yet  whether  one  is  or  is  not  able  to 
follow  it,  the  ideal  of  the  Book  of  Common 
Prayer  should  ever  be  realized  and  remembered  : 
To  comvninicate  on  Sundays,  Saints'  Days  and 
Holy  Days,  for  all  of  which  a  service  is  provided 
in  our  Liturgy,  and  on  special  occasions,  as  on 
a  birthday,  before  a  journey,  or  taking  some 
solemn  step.  The  frequent  reception  of  the 
Blessed  Sacrament  of  Christ's  Body  and  Blood 
should  bear  rich  fruit  in  our  spiritual  life. 


220  MEDITATIONS 


I. 


THE   HOLY    COMMUNION  AS  A  PREPARATION 
FOR  CHRIST. 

(Advent.) 

Preparation. 

Who  comes?  Our  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus 
Christ,  Who  though  God  became  Man, 
the  Word  made  Flesh,  Who  came  once 
in  humility.  Who  comes  now  in  Grace  and 
Who  will  come  at  the  Last  Day  in  Judg- 
ment. 

To  whom  does  He  come  ?  To  us  who  are  led 
away  by  the  deceits  of  the  M^orld,  the  flesh 
and  the  devil,  who  are  sore  let  and  hindered 
in  running  the  race  that  is  set  before  us. 

For  what  does  Be  come?  That  we  may  cast 
away  the  works  of  darkness  and  put  upon 
us  the  armour  of  light,  that  when  He  shall 
come  again  at  the  Last  Day,  we  may  rise  to 
the  life  immortal. 

Aspiration  :     "  Even  so  come,  Lord  Jesus." 

Thanksgiving. 

I.  Behold  Him  coming  in  the  Blessed  Sacra- 
ment to  fit  us  for  His  coming  at  the  Last 
Day. 

IL  Pray  that  by  a  holy  life  we  may  so  prepare 
for  death  that  we  will  await  His  coming  in 
joy. 

IIL  Resolve  by  His  Grace  to  live  henceforth  to 
His  Glory. 

Aspiration  :  "Blessed  is  He  that  cometh  in 
the  Name  of  the  Lord." 


MEDITATIONS  221 

II. 

THE  HOLY  COMMUNION  AS  A   SACRAMENT. 
(Christmas-Day.) 

Preparation. 

Who  comes  ?  The  Word  made  Flesh  ;  He  Who 
dwelling  in  the  Glory  of  God  in  Heaven 
humbled  Himself  to  live  as  Man  on  earth  ; 
He  Who  walketh  upon  the  wings  of  the 
wind  yet  lay  in  the  Manger  as  the  Babe  of 
Bethlehem. 

To  zvhom  does  He  cojne  ?  To  us  with  little  faith 
and  little  love,  who  care  for  earthly  things  ; 
who  see  "  through  a  glass  darkly." 

For  zvhat  does  He  come  ?  To  be  known  to  us  in 
the  Breaking  of  the  Bread,  to  dwell  with 
those  who  love  and  adore  Him. 

Aspiration  :  "I  will  sing  of  the  Lord,  because 
He  hath  dealt  so  lovingly  with  me  :  yea  I 
will  praise  the  Name  of  the  Lord  most 
highest." 

Than  ks giving. 

I.  Behold  Him  God  and  Man,  veiled  in  the 
Holy  Eucharist,  even  as  the  Glory  of  the 
Godhead  was  hidden  at  the  Incarnation. 

II.  Pray  for  faith,  love  and  humility,  the 
better  to  receive  Him  in  the  Holy  Com- 
munion. 

III.  Resolve  henceforth  to  live  to  Jesus,  and 
with  celestial  choirs  chant  the  Heavenly 
Hymn,  "  Holy,  Holy,  Holy,  Lord  God  of 
Hosts,  Heaven  and  Earth  are  full  of  Thy 
Glory." 

Aspiration  :  "  Let  us  now  go  even  unto  Beth- 
lehem and  see  this  thing  which  is  come  to 
pass,  which  the  Lord  hath  made  known 
unto  us." 


222  m:editattons 

III. 

THE  HOLY  COMMUNION   AS   REVEALING   CHRIST, 
(Epiphany.) 

Preparation. 

Who  comes  ?  Jesus  Christ,  the  Word  made 
Flesh,  the  Son  of  God,  Who  by  the  leading 
of  a  star  brought  the  Gentiles  to  His 
Manger  Bed,  and  manifested  Himself  to 
them  as  their  Saviour  King. 

To  xvhorn  does  He  come  ?  To  us  who  so  often 
misuse  the  Grace  of  God,  who  care  little  for 
the  unsearchable  riches  of  Christ,  who 
vmlike  the  Wise  Men  journeying  from  afar, 
go  with  but  halting  steps  to  worship  Him  in 
the  Sacrament. 

For  what  does  He  come  ?  That  we  may  know 
Him  now  by  faith  and  after  this  life  behold 
Him  revealed  in  His  Glory  in  Heaven. 

Aspiration  :  "  We  praise  Thee  O  God,  we  ac- 
knowledge Thee  to  be  the  Lord." 

Thanksgiving. 

I.  Behold  Him,  worshipped  by  the  Wise  Men, 
as  Prophet,  Priest  and  King,  as  in  lowly 
adoration  they  offer  the  Holy  Infant  their 
gifts  of  gold,  frank  incense  and  myrrh. 
Him  Who  comes  in  the  Holy  Mysteries. 

II.  Pray  that  we  too  may  do  Him  reverence, 
as  we  kneel  before  Him. 

III.  Resolve  to  show  forth  Christ  in  holy  liv- 
ing, that  in  us  He  may  be  revealed  to  others. 

Aspiration  :  "  Let  my  prayer  be  set  forth  in 
Thy  Sight  as  the  incense." 


MEDITATIONS  223 

IV. 

THE  HOLY  COMMUNION  AS  UNION  WITH  CHRIST. 
(Lent.) 
Preparation. 
Who  comes  ?     Our  Lord,  Who  fasted  forty  days 
and  forty  nights  in  the  wilderness,  tempted 
by  the  Devil.     Who,  though  Perfect  God 
became  Perfect  Man,  that  He  might  be  in 
all  things  like  unto  us,  yet  without  sin. 

To  whom  does  He  come  ?  To  us  who  "  live  in  a 
barren  and  dry  land  where  no  water  is,"  to 
us  who  need  to  watch  and  pray  that  we  en- 
ter not  into  Temptation. 

For  zuhat  does  He  come  ?  That  fasting  from  the 
world  we  may  feast  with  Him  ;  that  He 
may  dwell  in  us  and  we  in  Him  ;  that  by 
this  union  He  may  give  strength  to  conquer 
sin. 

Aspiration  :  "  Lord  I  am  not  worthy  that 
Thou  shouldst  come  under  my  roof." 

Than  ksgiving. 

I.     Behold  Him  the  Bread  of  Life  as  He  comes 

to  us  in  the  Holy  Communion   to  make  us 

one  with  Him. 
IL     Pray  that  Lent  may  make  us  more  worthy 

of  these    Holy  Mysteries,  that   henceforth 

we  may  approach  with   love,   longing  and 

adoration. 
IIL     Resolve  to  watch  and  pray,  that  we  may 

be  pure  in  heart  as  Jesus  deigns  to  dwell 

with  us. 
Aspiration  :     "  My  soul  thirsteth  for  Thee,  my 

flesh  longeth  after  Thee,  in  a  barren  and  dry 

land  where  no  water  is." 


224  MEDITATIONS 

V. 

THE   HOLY   COMMUNION   AS  A  SACRIFICE. 

(Holy  Week.) 

Preparation. 

Who  comes  ?  The  Saviour,  Whose  Blood  was 
shed  for  us,  Who  endured  the  Cross  and 
Passion,  suffering  as  Man,  atoning  as  God, 
that  He  might  make  by  that  one  Oblation  of 
Himself,  once  offered,  "  a  full,  perfect  and 
sufficient  sacrifice,  oblation  and  satisfaction 
for  the  sins  of  the  whole  world." 

To  whom  does  He  come  ?  To  us  who  often  cru- 
cify Jesus  by  our  sins,  to  us  who  being  sinful 
have  no  good  thing  of  our  own  to  offer,  who 
are  empty  before  God. 

For  what  does  He  come  ?  That  we  may  plead 
Christ's  Sacrifice  before  the  Father,  and 
through  His  Merits  and  Mediation  may 
offer  our  sacrifice  of  praise  and  thanksgiv- 
ing, that  His  Righteousness  may  be  imparted 
unto  us,  and  we  may  be  cleansed  from  sin. 

Aspiration  :  "  GOD  be  merciful  to  me  a  sinner." 
Thanksgiving. 

I.  Behold  Him  led  as  a  sheep  to  the  slaughter, 
with  His  garments  red  in  His  Own  Precious 
Blood,  and  remember  that  the  Holy  Com- 
munion is  the  pleading  of  that  Sacrifice. 

n.  Pray  that  we  may  bear  our  Cross  of  self- 
discipline  and  may  consecrate  ourselves  to 
His  Service. 

in.     Resolve  to  crucify  all  vile  affections. 

Aspiration  :  "By  Thy  Cross  and  Passion,  Good 
Lord  deliver  us." 


MEDITATIONS  225 

VI. 

THE    HOLY    COMMUNION    AS   THE    FORGIVENESS 
OF    SINS. 

(Easter.) 
Preparation, 

Who  comes?  Jesus  Christ,  Who  Rose  from  the 
dead  "  with  healing  in  His  wings,"  the  "very 
Paschal  Lamb  which  was  offered  for  us,  and 
hath  taken  away  the  sin  of  the  world." 

To  whom  does  He  come  ?  To  us  to  whom  ' '  the 
burden  of  sin  is  intolerable,"  who  bowed 
down  by  its  weight  seek  the  Saviour  that 
He  may  say:  "  Depart  in  peace,  thy  sins  be 
forgiven  thee." 

For  what  does  He  come  ?  To  answer  our  prayer, 
to  make  us  participate  in  the  Redemption 
He  hath  won  by  His  Death  and  Passion,  to 
absolve  us  from  our  sin  and  feed  us  with  the 
saving  gifts  of  His  Body  and  Blood. 

Aspiration  :  "  Praise  the  Lord,  O  my  soul,  and 
forget  not  all  His  Benefits.  Who  forgiveth 
all  thy  sins  and  healeth  all  thine  infirmities." 

Thanksgiving. 

I.  Behold  Christ  the  Great  High  Priest,  as 
Risen  from  the  Dead,  He  says,  "  I  am  the 
Resurrection  and  the  Life,"  and  blesses  us 
with  His  Own  Glorified  Body  and  Blood, 
Mystically  received  in  the  Holy  Com- 
munion. 

n.  Pray  that  we  may  rise  to  a  holier  life  and 
at  the  last  day  may  shine  as  the  stars  in 
Heaven. 

in.  Resolve  to  make  our  salvation  sure  by 
ever  seeking  His  Grace  in  the  Sacrament. 

Aspiration  :     "  My  Lord  and  My  God." 

IS 


226  MEDITATIONS 

VII. 

THE   HOLY    COMMUNION    AS    OUR   LIFE. 

(Ascension.) 

•  Preparation. 

Who  comes?  Our  Lord,  Who  Ascended  into 
Heaven  and  Sitteth  at  the  Right  Hand  of 
God  on  High  ;  the  King  of  Glory,  Who  yet 
deigns  to  come  to  us  in  the  Holy  Eucharist. 

To  whom  does  He  come  ?  To  us  of  the  earth, 
earthy,  who  mind  not  heavenly  things,  whose 
spiritual  life  needs  uplifting. 

For  what  does  He  come  ?  To  give  us  life  in 
Him,  to  renew  the  gift  of  Divine  Life,  that 
as  He  Ascended  into  the  Heavens,  so  we  in 
heart  and  mind  may  thither  ascend  and  con- 
tinually dwell  with  Him. 

Aspiration  :  "  O  Lord  to  whom  shall  we  go  : 
Thou  hast  the  words  of  Eternal  Life." 

Thanksgiving. 

L  Behold  Him  Who  Ascended  through  the 
choirs  of  Angels  as  they  sang  :  "  Lift  up 
your  heads,  O  ye  gates  and  be  ye  lift  up  ye 
everlasting  doors,  and  the  King  of  Glory 
shall  come  in." 

IT.  Pray  that  the  gates  of  our  hearts  and  the 
doors  of  our  sovils  may  open,  that  He  may 
enter  and  give  us  Eternal  Life. 

III.  Resolve  so  to  use  His  Grace  that  "when 
Christ  Who  is  our  Life  shall  appear,  then 
shall  ye  also  appear  with  Him  in  Glory." 

Aspiration:  "  My  soul  hath  a  desire  and  long- 
ing to  enter  into  the  courts  of  the  Lord." 


MEDITATIONS  227 

VIII. 
THE   HOLY    COMMUNION    AS    OUR   LIGHT. 

(Whitsunday.) 

Preparation. 

Who  comes  ?  Christ,  The  Light  of  the  World, 
Whom  the  Holy  Ghost  testified  is  the 
Son  of  God,  in  Whose  Name  the  Father 
sent  the  Holy  Ghost  on  Pentecost,  to 
guide  the  Church  unto  the  ages  of  ages. 

To  whom  does  He  come  ?  To  us  who  dwell  in 
darkness  and  the  shadow  of  death,  who 
need  a  Light  to  lighten  our  path. 

For  what  does  He  come  ?  That  being  our  Light, 
and  illuminating  our  minds,  we  may  have  a 
right  judgment  in  all  things,  and  like  Wise 
Virgins  may  have  Him,  the  Light,  burning 
within  us,  revealing  to  us  the  Word  of  Truth. 

Aspiration  :  "  Thy  Word  is  a  lantern  unto  my 
feet  :  and  a  light  unto  my  paths." 

Thanksgiving. 

I.  Behold  Him  in  the  Glory  and  Splendour  of 
the  Heavenly  Places,  adored  by  the  Angelic 
Host,  sending  His  Holy  Spirit  upon  us. 

II.  Pray  that  we  may  evermore  dwell  in  the 
light,  illumined  by  His  Brightness. 

III.  Resolve  to  let  the  Holy  Spirit  ever  lead 
us  nearer  Him  that  at  last  we  may  see  God's 
Beautiful  Face  in  the  Glory  Everlasting. 

Aspiration  :  "Come  Holy  Ghost,  our  souls 
inspire  :  And  lighten  with  celestial  fire.'' 


228  MEDITATIONS 

IX. 

THE  HOLY  COMMUNION  AS  OUR  LOVE. 

(Trinity.) 
Preparation. 

Who  comes?  Christ,  Who  said,  "Love  one 
another,"  Who  declared,  "  God  is  Love," 
Who  gives  Himself  to  us  in  these  Holy 
Mysteries. 

To  IV horn  does  He  come?  To  us  given  to  un- 
charitable thoughts,  who  little  love  God  or 
man,  to  whom  Jesus  says,  "  How  can  they 
love  God  whom  they  have  not  seen,  if  they 
love  not  their  brother,  whom  they  have 
seen." 

For  %uhat  does  He  come  ?  That  giving  us  Him- 
self, Who  is  Love,  we  may  have  Grace  to 
acknowledge  the  Glory  of  the  Eternal  Trin- 
ity, One  God,  in  Three  Persons,  Father, 
Son  and  Holy  Ghost,  Who  is  our  Love 
Light  and  Life,  and  may  love  all  men  as 
God's  children. 

Aspiration  :  "  Unto  Thee,  O  Lord,  will  I  lift 
up  my  soul." 

Thanksgiving. 

I.  Behold  Jesus  holding  forth  His  Pierced 
Hands,  pleading,  blessing,  and  saying 
"  Love  one  another." 

n.  Pray  for  His  Love,  that  we  may  say,  "  The 
love  of  Christ  constraineth  me." 

HL  Resolve  to  seek  this  Grace  in  the  Sacrament 
and  to  live  in  love  and  charity  with  all  men. 

Aspiration:  "O  that  men  would  therefore 
praise  the  Lord  for  His  Goodness  and  de- 
clare the  wonders  that  He  doeth  for  the 
children  of  men," 


MEDITATIONS  229 

X. 

THE   HOLY   COMMUNION   AS    OUR    STRENGTH. 

Preparation. 

Who  comes  ?  Our  Lord,  Who  hath  showed 
strength  with  His  Arm,  Whose  Name  is  the 
Lord  of  Hosts,  to  Whom  all  things  in 
Heaven  and  earth  do  bow. 

To  whom  does  He  come  ?  To  us  whose  spirit  is 
willing  but  whose  flesh  is  weak,  who  are 
sadly  struggling  against  besetting  sins,  un- 
able of  ourselves  to  resist. 

For  wliat  does  He  come  ?  That  strong  in  His 
Strength  and  full  of  His  Grace,  we  may 
"  go  from  strength  to  strength  "  until  "  unto 
the  God  of  Gods  "  we  appear  in  Sion. 

Aspiration  :  "  Blessed  is  the  man  whose  strength 
is  in  Thee  :  in  whose  heart  are  Thy  ways." 

Thanksgiving. 

L  Behold  Him  the  Rock  of  Ages,  Who  will 
lead  us  through  the  valley  of  the  shadow  of 
Death  and  with  His  Rod  and  Staff  support 
us. 

H.  Pray  to  trust  in  Him  and  work  with  His 
Grace  so  as  to  say,  "  Christ  in  us  the  Hope 
of  Glory." 

HL  Resolve  to  be  faithful  unto  death  that  we 
may  gain  the  Crown  of  Everlasting  Life. 

Aspiration  :  "  The  Lord  is  the  strength  of  my 
life  :    of  whom  then  shall  I  be  afraid." 


230  MEDITATIONS 


XI. 

THE   HOLY   COMMUNION   AS  OUR  REFRESHMENT. 
Preparatio7i. 

Who  comes  ?  Jesus,  the  Bread  of  Life  and  the 
Stream  of  Living  Waters,  Who  hath  said, 
"Whoso  eateth  My  Flesh  and  drinketh 
My  Blood  hath  Eternal  Life  and  I  will 
raise  him  up  at  the  last  day." 

To  7vhom  does  He  come  ?  To  us  who  are 
strangers  and  pilgrims  here,  journeying  on 
towards  death  "in  a  barren  and  dry  land 
where  no  water  is." 

For  what  does  He  come  ?  That  coming  to  Him 
we  may  neither  hunger  nor  thirst,  for  "  He 
hath  filled  the  hungry  with  good  things." 

Aspiration :  "Like  as  the  hart  desireth  the 
water  brooks,  so  longeth  my  soul  after 
Thee,  O  God." 

Thanksgiving. 

I.  Behold  Him  Who  is  the  Food  of  Immortal- 
ity, Who  freely  offers  Himself  to  us. 

II.  Pray  that  naught  but  Jesus  may  satisfy  and 
ever  say,  "  Lord  give  me  Thyself." 

III.  Resolve  to  be  better  prepared  for  each 
Eucharist  and  to  long  for  it  more  devoutly. 

Aspiration  :  "Give  us  day  by  day  our  Daily 
Bread." 


MEDITATIONS  23 1 

XII. 

THE  HOLY  COMMUNION  AS  OUR  THANKSGIVING. 
Preparation. 

Who  comes?  Christ,  Who  Died  for  us,  the 
Saviour  of  the  World,  Who  hath  borne  our 
sins  and  suffered  our  punishment. 

To  whom  does  He  come  ?  To  us  who  too  little 
think  of  the  Benefits  won  by  our  Lord's 
Death  and  Passion,  Who  little  appreciate 
the  gift  of  His  Body  and  Blood,  Who  for- 
get the  blessings  God  so  bountifully  gives. 
For  what  does  He  come  ?  That  recalling  us 
to  ourselves  we  may  love  and  adore  and 
bless  and  thank  GoD  for  all  His  Goodness, 
and  the  wonders  that  He  doeth  for  the 
children  of  men. 

Aspiration :  "Praise  the  Lord,  O  my  soul 
and  all  that  is  within  me  praise  His  Holy 
Name." 

Thanksgiving. 

I.  Behold  Him  Who  hath  bought  us  with  a 
price.  Who  hath  shed  His  Precious  Blood 
for  us  and  gives  us  the  Gift  of  Himself. 

II.  Pray  that  we  may  learn  to  be  thankful  and 
appreciate  all  that  He  has  done  for  us  and 
above  all  God's  love  in  the  Redemption  of 
the  world. 

III.  Resolve  to  offer  up  the  Eucharist  as  our 
chief  act  of  thanksgiving,  doing  all  for  the 
Greater  Glory  of  God. 

Aspiration  :  "  Let  everything  that  hath  breath 
praise  the  Lord." 


232  MEDITATIONS 

XIII. 
THE  HOLY  COMMUNION  IN  JOY  AND  PLEASURE. 

Preparation. 

Who  co77ies?  Christ,  Who  by  His  first  Miracle 
at  the  Marriage  of  Cana  sanctified  all  in- 
nocent joy  and  pleasure. 

To  whot/i  does  He  come  ?  To  us  who  are  too  apt 
in  our  happiness  to  forget  Jesus,  who  are  in 
danger  of  choking  the  seed  of  His  Word  by 
the  riches  and  pleasures  of  life. 

For  what  does  He  come?  That  we  may  love 
Him,  not  the  world,  that  loving  Him  above 
all  things  we  may  be  in  the  world  but  not 
of  the  world. 

Aspiration  :  "  O  turn  away  mine  eyes  lest  they 
behold  vanity  :  and  quicken  Thou  me  in 
Thy  way." 

Thanksgiving. 

I.  Behold  Christ,  in  the  Brightness  of  His 
Majesty,  looking  in  love  on  us  when  we 
rightly  use  all  innocent  joys  and  pleasures 
by  turning  them  to  His  Glory  as  He  comes 
to  crown  all  by  the  Holy  Eucharist. 

II.  Pray  that  we  may  at  all  times  remember 
God's  Presence  and  may  never  forget  Him 
in  our  blessings. 

III.  Resolve  to  cultivate  detachment  from 
earthly  things  and  welcome  Christ  at  the 
Altar  as  the  Giver  of  all  Gifts. 

Aspiration  :  "  The  earth  is  the  Lord's  and  all 
that  therein  is." 


MEDITATIONS  233 

XIV. 

THE  HOLY  COMMUNION   IN   SORROW  AND 
SUFFERING. 

Preparation. 

Who  comes  ?  The  Man  of  Sorrows,  Who  hath 
said,  "  See  if  there  be  any  sorrow  like  unto 
My  sorrow"  ;  the  King  of  Glory,  Who  now 
comes  to  us. 

To  whom  does  He  come  ?  To  us  who  shrink 
from  pain  and  suffering,  sorrow  and  loss, 
who  often  do  not  see  the  Loving  Hand  of 
God  in  all  these  afflictions. 

For  what  does  He  come?  To  comfort  us  with 
Himself,  to  teach  us  the  privilege  of  suffer- 
ing, to  make  us  know  that  sorrow  gives  us 
fellowship  with  Him. 

Aspiration  :  "I  reckon  the  sufferings  of  this 
present  time  are  not  worthy  to  be  compared 
with  the  glory  which  shall  be  revealed  in  us." 

Thanksgiving. 

I.  Behold  Christ  on  the  Cross,  His  Pierced 
Hands  and  Feet,  His  Side  and  Thorn- 
crowned  Brows,  stained  with  His  Own 
Precious  Blood. 

II.  Pray  that  we  may  patiently  bear  all  things 
as  He  bore  the  Cross  for  us. 

III.  Resolve  to  use  the  Holy  Communion  as 
the  great  means  of  comfort. 

Aspiration  :  "  So  they  cried  unto  the  Lord  in 
their  trouble  and  He  delivered  them  from 
their  distress." 


234  MEDITATIONS 

XV. 

THE   HOLY  COMMUNION   IN   TRIAL   AND 
TEMPTATION. 

Preparation. 

Who  comes  ?  Jesus  Christ,  Who  was  "  in  all 
points  tempted  like  as  we  are  yet  without 
sin,"  Who  now  conies  in  His  Glorified  Life 
to  give  Himself  to  us. 

To  zijhom  does  He  come  ?  To  us  in  a  wicked  and 
naughty  world,  drawn  away  and  enticed  by 
our  own  lusts,  with  no  power  of  ourselves 
to  help  ourselves. 

For  what  does  He  come  ?  That  following  His 
Example  and  steadfastly  looking  unto  Him, 
we  may  have  grace  to  resist  all  temptations 
and  live  a  life  hid  with  Christ  in  God. 

Aspiration  :  "  Blessed  is  the  man  that  endureth 
temptation  :  for  when  he  is  tried  he  shall 
receive  the  Crown  of  Life,  which  the  Lord 
hath  promised  to  them  that  love  Him." 

Thanksgiving. 

I.  Behold  Him  teaching  us  how  to  live  and  die, 
and  holding  up  before  us  His  Perfect  Life 
as  manifested  here  on  earth. 

II.  Pray  that  we  may  copy  that  Beautiful  Life 
by  living  in  Him,  for  Him  and  to  Him. 

III.  Resolve  to  overcome  temptation  by 
Prayer  and  Fasting  and  especially  by  the 
grace  of  the  Blessed  Sacrament,  ever  looking 
unto  Jesus. 

Aspiration  :  "I  will  lift  up  mine  eyes  unto  the 
hills  from  whence  cometh  my  help.  My 
help  cometh  even  from  the  Lord." 


MEDITATIONS  235 

XVI. 

THE  HOLY  COMMUNION  THE  PROMISE  OF 
SALVATION. 

Preparation. 

Who  comes?  The  Redeemer  of  the  world,  Who 
comes  to  us  that  we  may  not  perish  but 
have  Everlasting  Life,  \Yho  when  we  rightly 
receive  Him  says,  "I  will  raise  him  up  at 
the  last  day." 

To  zvhom  does  He  come  ?  To  us  as  sheep  go- 
ing astray,  to  sinners,  knowing  not  the  time 
of  death's  visitation. 

For  'what  does  He  co??ie  ?  That  in  Him  we  may 
live,  by  Him  we  may  have  peace  and 
through  Him  we  may  gain  Everlasting  Life. 

Aspiration  :  "  O  do  well  unto  Thy  servant : 
that  I  may  live  and  keep  Thy  Word." 

Thanksgiving. 

I.  Behold  Him  on  the  Cross,  and  see  there  the 
Symbol  of  our  Redemption. 

IL  Pray  to  bear  the  Cross,  and  by  receiving 
the  Sacraments  to  appropriate  the  salvation 
there  won  for  us. 

III.  Resolve  to  prepare  for  death  by  a  holy  life 
and  by  frequent  Communion  have  the  rea- 
sonable assurance  of  salvation. 

Aspiration  :  "  O  Saviour  of  the  World,  Who 
by  Thy  Cross  and  Precious  Blood  hast  Re- 
deemed us,  save  us  and  help  us,  we  humbly 
beseech  Thee,  O  Lord." 


PENITENTIAL  OFFICES. 


IN  the  Preparation  for  Holy  Communion  and 
the  cultivation  of  the  spiritual  life,  it  is 
helpful  to  use  special  Devotions  and  Offices 
as  Penitential  Prayers,  in  order  to  deepen  and 
show  forth  our  love  of  God,  our  sorrow  for  sin 
and  our  desire  for  righteousness.  The  Book 
of  Common  Prayer  is  rich  beyond  measure  in 
such  Devotions,  the  stately  dignity,  the  reverent 
wording,  and  noble  aspiration  of  which  are  in 
marked  contrast  to  the  very  inferior  and  often 
familiar  and  fulsome  prayers  gathered  from  other 
sources.  The  following  will  be  found  especially 
helpful : 

—  The  Litany  or  General  Supplication. 

—  The  Penitential  Office  for  Ash  Wed- 

nesday. 

—  The    Seven    Penitential    Psalms  —  vi., 

xxxii.,  xxxviii.,  li.,  cii.,  cxxx.,  cxliii. 

—  The  Collects  of  the  Prayer  Book. 

—  Hymn   529,    American    Hymnal  or  465, 

A.  AND  M. 

In  addition  to  these  may  be  used  the  Peniten- 
tial Prayers  or  the  Litanies  here  set  forth. 

236 


PENITENTIAI,  OFFICES  237 

I. 

PENITENTIAL  PRAYERS 

{^Chiefly  from  Ancietit  Sources^  considerably  adapted^ 

OGOD,  Who  art  infinitely  Holy  and  art 
hymned  by  the  angels  and  adored  by  all 
the  heavenly  powers,  Who  didst  make 
man  in  Thine  Own  Image  and  didst  adorn  him 
with  all  Thy  graces,  Who  givest  to  him  that 
seeketh  wisdom  and  understanding  and  passest 
not  the  sinner,  grant  us  we  beseech  Thee,  repent- 
ance unto  salvation.  Forgive  us  all  our  offences 
and  sanctify  our  souls  and  bodies  that  we  may 
serve  Thee  in  purity  and  holiness  all  the  rest 
of  our  life.     Amen.' 

ALMIGHTY  and  Everlasting  God,  Who  in 
Thy  Goodness  didst  give  to  man  when 
he  had  sinned  an  exhortation  to  repent- 
ance, look  down  upon  those  who  penitently  bow 
before  Thee.  Thou  wiliest  not  the  death  of  a 
sinner,  but  rather  his  conversion,  that  he  may 
turn  from  his  evil  ways  and  live.  .  .  Do  Thou 
therefore  receive  the  repentance  of  thy  suppli- 
ants ;  for  there  is  none  that  sinneth  not  before 
Thee.  For  if  Thou  Lord  shall  be  extreme  to 
mark  what  is  done  amiss,  O  Lord,  who  may 
abide  it  ?  '^ 

I  HAVE  sinned  O  Lord,  against  Thee  and  in 
Thy  sight.        My  many  offences  crieth  for 
judgment  against  me  ;  yet,  O  Lord,  Thou 
hast   promised    that  where    sin   hath   abounded 
Grace   shall  yet  more  abound.     And  Thy  prom- 
ise bids  me  not  despair,  for  he  who  despairs  of 

^  Liturgy  of  S.  Chrysostom. 
^  Liturgy  of  S.  Clement. 


238  PENITENTIAI,  OFFICES 

pardon  denies  Thee  to  be  a  God  of  mercy.  The 
multitude  of  my  sins  abaseth  me  to  the  dust,  but 
the  thought  of  Thy  Passion  raiseth  me  ;  the 
nails  and  spear  cry  aloud  that  1'hou  hast  recon- 
ciled me  by  Thy  Blood.  The  soldier  opened 
Thy  wounded  Side,  wherein  as  in  a  cleft  of  the 
Rock  of  Ages,  I  hide  myself  from  the  foe 
and  rest  secure.  Thou  inclinest  Thine  Head,  O 
Crucified  Saviour,  even  in  death  as  if  to  greet 
me  ;  Thou  openest  Thine  Arms  as  if  to  embrace 
me.  In  that  embrace  I  am  willing  to  live,  and 
in  it  I  do  long  to  die.     Amen.' 

OLORD,  help  us  to  turn  and  seek  Thee  ;  for 
Thou  hast  not  forsaken  us  Thy  creatures 
as  we  have  forsaken  Thee,  our  Creator. 
Make  us  to  turn  and  seek  Thee,  for  we  know 
that  Thou  art  here  in  our  hearts  when  we  confess 
to  Thee,  when  we  cast  ourselves  upon  Thee, 
when  we  weep  in  Thy  Bosom.' 

OGOD,  The  Light  of  every  heart  that  sees 
Thee,  the  Life  of  every  soul  that  loves 
Thee,  the  Strength  of  every  mind  that 
seeks  Thee,  grant  me  ever  to  continue  steadfast 
in  Thy  Holy  Love.  .  .  .  To  Thee  therefore  I 
humbly  cry,  pleading  that  Thou  wilt  cleanse  me 
from  my  secret  faults,  and  keep  Thy  servant 
from  presumptuous  sins,  so  that  they  may  never 
get  dominion  over  me.     Amen.' 

SHOW  me  Thy  mercy,  O  Lord,  for  I  am  a 
sheep  that  is  gone  astray.    O  Good  Shep- 
herd,  seek   me    out  and  bring  me   home 
again  to  Thy  fold.     Deal  favourably  with  me 
according   to    Thy  good  pleasure,   that    I  may 

*  S.  Augustine. 


PENITENTIAI,  OFFICES  239 

dwell  in  Thine  house  all  the  days  of  my  life  and 
praise  Thee  for  ever  and  ever  with  them  that  are 
there.     Amen.' 

OMOST  High  and  Gracious  Lover  of  men, 
to  Thee  I  confess  all  my  sins,  whatsoever 
and  howsoever  committed,  from  the  hour 
when  I  first  could  sin  up  to  this  hour  in  which 
by  Thy  mercy  Thou  still  sufTerest  me  to  live.  .  .  . 
Have  mercy  upon  me,  O  Lord,  who  cry  unto 
Thee  ;  let  the  voice  of  faith  weeping  unto  Thee 
move  Thy  Love  ;  and  let  that  mercy,  in  which 
alone  I  hope,  forbid  Thee  to  be  extreme  to  mark 
what  is  done  amiss.  .  .  .  O  free  Thou  me  from 
all  evils  and  bring  me  to  Life  Everlasting. 
Amen.^ 

OLORD,  I  offer  unto  Thee  all  my  sins  and 
offences  which  I  have  committed  in  Thy 
sight.  .  .  .  that  Thou  mayst  burn  and 
consume  them  all  with  the  fire  of  Thy  love,  that 
Thou  mayst  wipe  away  every  stain  and  cleanse 
my  conscience  from  every  fault,  that  Thou  mayst 
restore  to  me  Thy  Grace,  which  I  have  lost  by 
my  sin,  by  fully  pardoning  and  receiving  me  in 
Thy  mercy.  O  Lord,  my  God,  depart  not 
far  from  me  ;  O  look  upon  me  and  help  me,  for 
this  is  my  hope  and  my  one  consolation,  to  fly 
to  Thee  in  every  tribulation,  to  trust  in  Thee,  to 
call  upon  Thee  from  my  heart  and  patiently  to 
await  Thy  comfort.  O  Good  Jesus,  enlighten 
me  I  beseech  Thee  with  Thy  brightness  and 
cast  out  all  darkness  from  the  dwelling  of  my 
heart.      Amen.  ^ 

*  S.  Jerome. 

'  S.  Anselm.  '  Thomas  a  Kempis. 


240  PENITENTIAI,  OFFICES 

OLORU,  Who  hast  called  me  to  repentance 
by  Thy  Word.  .  .  .  Call  me  also  by  Thy 
Grace;  but  call  me  so  powerfully  that  I 
may  not  turn  a  deaf  ear  and  that  I  may  not  resist 
Thy  Call.  I  am  forced  indeed  to  bring  my  sins 
along  with  me  ;  but  it  is  to  crucify  them  with 
Thee,  and  with  a  full  purpose  through  Thy 
Grace,  never  to  return  to  those  sins  that  I  have 
repented  of.' 

O  FAT  HER  of  mercies,  I  beseech  Thy  Fath- 
erly loving  kindness  despise  me  not  ;  but 
rather  regard  me  as  Thou  didst  regard 
Magdalen  at  the  feast,  Peter  in  the  hall,  the 
thief  on  the  Cross  ;  that  with  Peter  I  may  bitterly 
weep,  with  the  thief  I  may  confess,  with  the  Mag- 
dalen may  love,  yea,  love  much  since  I  have  so 
iTiany  sins  to  be  forgiven.  Spare  me,  O  Lord, 
spare  me,  a  penitent,  at  least  desiring  to  be  a  pen- 
itent and  preparing  thereto,  recollecting  my  sins 
with  grief,  indignant  with  myself  concerning 
them,  and  laying  hold  of  Thy  Most  Bitter  Passion. 
Spare  me,  O  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  me, 
because  it  is  not  difficult  to  Thy  Power,  not  un- 
befitting Thy  Justice,  nor  unusual  to  Thy  Good- 
ness.^ 

OGOD,  prostrate  before  the  Cross,  we  kneel 
as  suppliants,  sorrowing  for  our  sin.  We 
are  unworthy  to  raise  so  much  as  our  eyes 
unto  Thee.  Yet  Thou  art  our  Most  Loving 
Father,  and  art  more  ready  to  hear  than  we  to 
pray.  Therefore  O  Lord,  behold  us  in  mercy, 
as  we  abase  ourselves  in  the  dust,  as  we  bow 
before  the  Cross,  as  we  plead  the  Passion  of  Thy 
Dear  Son.     Send  us  not  empty  away  but  for  His 

^  Bishop  Wilson.  ^  Bishop  Andrewes. 


PENITENTIAI,  OFFICES  241 

sake  hearken  to  our  prayer,  raise  us  from  our 
sin  and  renew  us  with  Thy  Grace,  that  we  may 
henceforth  live  to  Thine  Honour  and  Glory  and 
in  the  world  to  come  hymn  Thy  praises  with  all 
the  heavenly  host  unto  the  ages  of  ages.  Amen. 

II. 

SHORT  LITANY  OF  PENITENCE 

OGoD  the  Father  of  Heaven  : 
Have  mercy  upon  us,  miserable  sinners. 

O  God  the  Son,  Redeemer  of  the  World  : 
Have  mercy  upon  us,  miserable  sinners. 

O  God,  the  Holy  Ghost,  Proceeding  from  the 
Father  and  the  Son  : 
Have  mercy  upon  tis,  miserable  sinners. 

O   Holy,   Blessed   and    Glorious   Trinity, 
Three  Persons  and  One  God  : 
Have  mercy  upon  us,  miserable  sinners. 

Remember  not,  Lord,  our  ofifences  nor  the 
offences  of  our  forefathers  :  neither  take 
Thou  vengeance  of  our  sins :  Spare  us. 
Good  Lord,  spare  Thy  people,  whom  Thou 
hast  redeemed  with  Thy  Most  Precious 
Blood  and  be  not  angry  with  us  forever  : 
Spare  us,  Good  Lord. 

O  Saviour  of  the  World,  Who  by  Thy  Cross 
and  Precious  Blood  hast  redeemed  us  : 
Save  us  and  help  us,  lae  hitnibly  beseech  Thee 
0  Lord. 

From  the  deceits  of  the  world,  the  flesh  and  the 
devil  : 
Good  Lord,  Deliver  us. 

From  the  just  reward  of  our  sins  : 
Good  Lord,  Deliver  us. 


242  PENITENTIAI,   OFFICES 

From    everlasting    damnation : 

Good  Lord,  Deliver  us. 
By  Thy   Holy  Incarnation  : 

Good  LoRDy  Deliver  us. 
By  Thine  Agony   in  the    Garden  : 

Good  Lord,  Deliver  us. 
By  Thy  Suffering  and  Humiliation  : 

Good  Lord,  Deliver  us. 
By  Thy  Bitter  Cross  and  Passion  : 

Good  Lord,  Deliver  us. 
By  Thy  Holy  Life  and  Death*. 

Good  Lord.  Deliver  us. 
By  Thy  Glorious  Resurrection  and  Ascension  : 

Good  Lord,  Deliver  us. 
By  Thy    Perpetual    Intercession  : 

Good  Lord,  Deliver  us. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  bring  us  to  sincere 
repentance : 
IV e  beseech  Thee  to  hear  us.  Good  Lord. 

That   it  may   please    Thee   to  cleanse   us  from 
all  unrighteousness  : 
We  beseech  Thee  to  hear  us,  Good  Lord. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  renew  Thy  Grace 
within  us  : 
We  beseech  Thee  to  hear  us.  Good  Lord. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  io  deliver  us  from  all 
evil  : 
We  beseech  Thee  to  hear  us.  Good  L^ord. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  lead  us  to  true  holi- 
ness : 
We  beseech  Thee  to  hear  us.  Good  Lord. 

That  it  may  please  Thee  to  bring  us  to  Everlast- 
ing Life  : 
We  beseech  Thee  to  hear  us.  Good  Lord. 

Son  of  God  ;  We  beseech  Thee  to  hear  us, 
i6 


PENITENTIAI.  OfFlCKS  243 

O  Lamb  of  God,  Who  takest  away  the  sins  of 

the  world  : 

Grant  us  Thy  peace. 
O  Lamb  of  God,  Who  takest  away  the  sins  of 

the  world  : 

Have  mercy  upon  us. 
O  Christ,  hear  us. 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

Our  Father,  Who  art  in  Heaven,  etc. 

O  God,  we  believe  in  Thee,  we  hope  in  Thee, 
and  we  love  Thee,  and  we  are  sorry  that  we 
have  so  often  offended  Thee  by  our  sins. 

O  Lord,  deal  not  with  us  according  to  our  sins  : 
Neither    rezuard   us    according  to   our   in- 
iquities. 

O  Lord,  let  Thy  mercy  be  showed  upon  us  : 
As  zoe  do  put  our  trust  in  Thee. 

Let  us  depart  in  peace  : 

In  the  Name  of  the  Lord,  Amen. 

III. 

HYMN  OF  THE  PASSION. 

O  Blessed  Feet  of  Jesus 

Weary  with  seeking  me  ! 
Stand  at  God's  bar  of  judgment 

And  intercede  for  me. 

O  Knees  that  bent  in  anguish 

In  dark  Gethsemene  ! 
Kneel  at  the  Throne  of  Glory 

And  intercede  for  me. 


244  PENITENTIAI,  OFFICES 

O  Hands  that  were  extended 

Upon  that  awful  Tree  ! 
Hold  up  those  precious  nail  prints 

Which  intercede  for  me. 

O  Side  from  whence  the  spear  point 
Brought  Blood  and  Water  free  ! 

For  healing  and  for  cleansing 
Still  intercede  for  me. 

O  Head  so  deeply  pierced 

With  Thorns  which  sharpest  be  ! 

Bend  low  before  Thy  Father 
And  intercede  for  me. 

O  Sacred  Heart !  Such  sorrows 

The  world  may  never  see, 
As  that  which  gave  Thee  warrant 

To  intercede  for  me  ! 

O  wholly  scarred  and  wounded 

My  Sacrifice  to  be  ! 
Present  Thy  Perfect  Offering 

And  intercede  for  me. 

O  Loving,  Risen  Saviour 

From  death  and  sorrow  free  ! 

Though  Throned  in  endless  Glory 
Still  intercede  for  me.' 

^  From  an  inscription  on  a  cross  in  an  Italian  church. 


SHORT  READINGS 


PRAYER 


PRAYER  is  the  chief  means  of  attaining  holi- 
ness. It  bridges  the  gap  between  Heaven 
and  earth,  God  and  man.  When  we  pray 
we  are  in  the  Presence  of  God,  we  mount  as  on 
angel  wings  to  the  heavenly  places.  It  matters 
not  if  we  pray  aloud  or  pray  silently.  We  may 
even  pray  without  thought,  beyond  that  of  rest- 
ing in  God,  and  communing  with  Him.  Prayer 
elevates,  chastens  and  purifies  the  soul.  It 
shows  our  love  for  GoD.  It  shows  His  Love  for 
us.  God  is  so  gracious  to  listen,  so  loving  to 
answer.  Man  grows  weary  of  us,  God  never. 
He  is  the  Heavenly  Father,  Who  is  ever  ready 
to  hear,  no  matter  how  poorly  expressed  are  our 
prayers.  Our  adoration,  our  thanksgiving,  our 
confessions,  our  intercessions,  our  petitions  are 
all  accepted  and  in  each  GOD  gives  a  special 
blessing.  Prayer,  however,  owing  to  the  frailty 
of  our  erring  humanity,  involves  work.  If  we 
do  our  best,  however,  GoD  is  there  to  reward. 
He  answers  in  the  still  small  voice,  whispering 
His  Word  of  Love  to  the  soul,  conveying  His 
Peace  and  giving  the  Inspiration  to  higher  things. 
He  answers  but  not  always  at  once  or  as  we 
wish.  We  must  ever  trust  that  He  knoweth  best, 
and  doeth  all  things  wisely. 

245 


246  SHORT  READINGS 


THE    SPIRITUAL   LIFE 

THE  Spiritual  Life  is  a  life  "  hid  with 
Christ  in  God. '''"^  It  is  the  cultivation 
of  the  highest  part  of  man's  being.  It  is 
the  only  life  worth  living,  the  only  life  that  fits 
us  for  the  Everlasting  Life  in  Heaven.  Man's 
sojourn  in  this  vv^orld  is  but  a  pilgrimage,  a 
journey  towards  the  Jerusalem  on  high,  the 
Holy  City  of  God.  Life  is  given  here  that  we 
may  have  life  hereafter,  and  when  the  spirit 
once  realizes  its  immortality,  we  will  be  satisfied 
with  naught  less  than  God.  He  made  us  for 
Himself  and  there  is  no  real  joy  or  rest  apart 
from  Him.  The  Spiritual  Life  then  is  union 
with  God  by  Prayer  and  Sacrament,  and  the 
reaching  after  those  spiritual  blessings  which 
raise  our  thoughts  to  the  things  above. 

HOLINESS 

WE  all  need  to  sanctify  ourselves  to  become 
holy  in  God's  Sight.  To  do  this  we 
must  pattern  ourselves  after  Jesus,  to 
have  His  Beautiful  Life  in  some  measure  reflected 
in  ourselves.  Our  character  is  not  what  we  think 
we  are,  or  what  others  think  we  are,  but  what  we 
really  are.  Our  character  must  bear  the  "  marks 
of  the  Lord  yEsusy  ^  Holiness  must  be  striven 
for,  humbly,  patiently,  earnestly,  prayerfully 
striven  for,  in  the  realization  of  our  responsi- 
bility, in  the  realization  of  our  privilege.  Then 
at  last  may  dawn  the  day,  when  we  will  be  so  per- 
fected and  conformed  to  the  Mind  of  GOD,  that 
we  will  wish  only  to  do  His  Will,  to  live  for 
His  Glory,  to  say  to  our  souls  "Jesus  Only." 

^  Colossians  iii.  3.  ^  Galatians  vi.  17. 


HE     TOUCHETH      THE     CROSS,     AND 
MAKETH    IT    LIGHT." 


SHORT  READINGS  247 


COMMUNION 

WE  hardly  realize  the  good  things  that  GoD 
gives  to  those  who  love  Him  !  How 
little,  for  instance,  we  appreciate  the 
blessing  of  Holy  Communion!  How  cold  is  our 
devotion  at  times  !  How  little  we  long  for  the 
Sacrament  !  How  poorly  we  prepare  for  it  ! 
How  hurried  our  thanksgiving  !  Yet  here  in 
the  Blessed  Sacrament  we  have  heavenly  food, 
even  our  dear  Lord's  Body  and  Blood.  Here 
we  dwell  in  Him  and  He  in  us.  O  !  The  won- 
drous privilege  and  blessing  of  that  Union  ! 
What  joy,  happiness  and  rapture  we  should  feel  ! 
In  the  Presence  of  the  Master,  ay,  more,  united 
with  the  Saviour,  what  could  we  want  more 
than  this,  what  blessing  could  be  greater  than 
this  ?  We  need  to  think  more  about  this 
precious  privilege,  to  let  nothing  keep  us  away 
from  Jesus,  to  seek  Him  with  the  full  strength 
of  our  being  and  when  He  comes  to  us  in  the 
Holy  Communion,  to  greet  Him  and  to  receive 
Him  with  the  greatest  love,  devotion  and  thanks- 
giving, saying  again  and  again,  "  Aly  Lord  and 
My  God:'  ' 

THE  DAILY  CROSS 

THERE  will  ever  be  to  the  faithful  follower 
of  Jesus  a  daily  Cross  to  bear.  It  may  be 
some  sorrow  or  suffering,  some  trial  or 
temptation,  some  besetting  sin.  The  Cross  is 
always  there.  To  bear  the  Cross  is  to  win  the 
Crown.  It  is  the  symbol  of  our  salvation,  and 
the  bearing  of  it  shows  our  fellowship  with 
Christ.     It  is  the  sanctifying  power  of  life, 

•^  S.  John  XX.  28. 


248  SHORT  READINGS 

dragging  up  from  the  depths  of  sin,  drawing  us 
from  the  allurements  of  the  world,  raising  to  the 
heights  of  Heaven.  If  we  bear  our  Cross,  what- 
ever that  Cross  may  be,  in  the  little  worries,  the 
big  worries,  the  petty  annoyances  of  every  day, 
the  cares,  the  burdens,  the  disappointments  of 
life,  in  sickness,  sorrow  or  suffering,  by  self- 
denial,  or  self-discipline,  or  in  whatever  way  God 
sends  the  Cross,  then  will  the  Master's  Words  be 
fulfilled,  "  Ve  sJiall  find  rest  for  your  souls 
For  My  yoke  is  easy  and  My  burden  is  light,'"  ^ 


SANCTIFYING    OUR    WORK 

ALL  honest  labour  is  honourable  in  God's 
Sight.  It  is  not  %vhat  we  do  but  hoiv  we 
do  it  that  makes  us  acceptable  to  God. 
We  all  have  vocation  or  calling  and  fitness 
for  something.  We  should  try  and  find  it, 
and  when  we  find  it,  do  our  very  best  to 
make  our  labours  glorify  God.  We  must 
try  to  be  perfect  in  what  we  do,  remembering 
that  little  things  make  perfection  but  that  perfec- 
tion is  not  a  little  thing.  No  matter  how  lowly, 
how  trivial,  how  unnoticed  may  be  the  work,  it 
should  be  done  in  the  realization  of  the  Presence 
of  God,  thinking  of  the  words,  "  Thou  God 
seest  niey  ^  Thus  GoD  is  glorified,  the  Master  is 
followed,  we  and  our  works  are  acceptable  at 
the  Throne  of  Grace  and  some  day  we  shall  hear 
those  blessed  words,  "  Well  done ^  Thou  good  and 
faithful  servant, ''''   ^ 

'  S.  Matthew,  xi.  29-30. 

"^  Genesis  xvi.  13.  ^  S.  Matthew  xxv.  21. 


SHORT   READINGS  249 

FAITH,   HOPE  AND  CHARITY 

WE  all  need  to  cultivate  the  Theological 
Virtues.  Our  Faith  in  God  and  in  His 
Revelation  should  never  waver.  When 
wicked  men  attack  the  beliefs  we  hold  most  dear, 
we  should  remember  that  our  Lord  predicted 
this,  but  that  we  need  not  fear,  because  the 
Holy  Ghost  is  ever  with  us.  Our  Hope  should 
be  strong,  grounded  in  Christ  Jesus,  the  Rock 
against  which  the  gates  of  Hell  cannot  prevail. 
We  must  never  despair  of  ourselves,  of  others,  or 
of  the  Church,  for  when  all  seems  darkest,  God  is 
near  and  the  light  will  come,  for  "  a^  evening 
time  it  shall  he  light.''  '  Charity  or  Divine 
Love  must  also  pervade  us,  for  without  it  our 
doings  are  nothing  worth.  It  is  the  greatest  of 
all  virtues,  for  by  Charity  we  love  GOD  and  love 
our  neighbour  and  thus  fulfil  the  Law. 


JUDGMENT 

WE  must  judge  ourselves  not  others.  We 
may  condemn  the  sin  but  never  the  sin- 
ner. The  more  we  realize  our  own 
faults  and  flaws,  our  own  sins  and  needs,  the 
more  charitably  will  we  look  on  others.  They 
may  not  have  the  same  light,  the  same  oppor- 
tunities, the  same  privileges,  yet  they  may  be 
trying  harder  than  we  to  do  what  is  right.  We 
should  pray  for  them , ' '  Fa  ther,  forgive  them  for 
they  know  not  what  they  do"  ^  and  praying  for 
others,  we  ourselves  should  cultivate  humility, 
for  we,  at  best,  are  but  "  unprofitable  servants." 
If  tempted  in  the  same  way  or  placed  in  the  same 

^  Zechariah  xiv.  7.  ^  S.  Luke  xxiii.  34. 


250  SHORT   READINGS 

position,  we  might  have  erred  more  grievously. 
We  should  try  to  save  souls,  rebuking  in  love, 
gentleness  and  kindness,  aiming  to  set  a  good 
example.  Firmly  standing  for  righteousness,  we 
should  pray  for  those  who  offend,  judging  our- 
selves but  not  others, 

CHEERFULNESS 

THOSE  who  seek  after  righteousness  should 
be  cheerful,  their  faces  lighted  with  a 
holy  peace  and  resignation.  How  much 
sunshine  does  a  happy  face,  a  bright  smile,  or 
a  merry  laugh  bring  with  it !  They  comfort 
and  cheer  and  gladden  all  those  who  see  or 
hear  them.  Let  us  then  be  cheerful  in  our 
religion,  cultivating  contentment  in  our  state  of 
life,  resignation  to  what  GoD  sends,  making  the 
best  of  things,  seeing  God's  Hand  in  all  about 
us.  Once  gain  the  inner  peace,  the  sense  of 
resting  in  God,  and  nothing  is  too  hard  to  bear 
with  composure. 

AIM   IN  LIFE 

OUR  life  should  not  be  aimless.  It  should  be 
lived  by  a  simple  rule,  built  on  a  positive 
Faith,  directed  to  some  definite  end.  To 
accomplish  anything  acceptable  in  God's  Sight 
we  must  put  away  the  idea  of  self,  remembering 
that  our  ^diWiowr  '' pleased  not  Hi??is elf  .'' ^  We 
must  have  the  highest  Ideal  and  strive  hard  to 
reach  it,  knowing,  however,  we  never  fully  can 
attain  it.  We  must  cultivate  earnestness  of  pur- 
pose, submission  to  God's  Will,  renunciation  of 
our  desires.       This,  united  with  sympathy  for 

*  Romans  xv.  3. 


SHORT   READINGS  25 1 

others,  forbearance  towards  others,  and  strict- 
ness with  ourselves,  will  help  us  attain  our  aim  in 
life.  Religion  must  have  a  first  place,  and  duty 
must  be  realized  through  religion.  With  all,  we 
must  cultivate  Purity,  for  only  through  Purity 
can  we  see  and  know  GoD  and  His  Will  : 
^''blessed  are  the  pure  in  heart- for  they  shall 
see  God.'"  ' 

FREQUENT  COMMUNION 

IT  is  helpful  and  customary  for  the  faithful, 
for  those  who  are  striving  for  '  'the  things  per- 
taining to  God  "  to  receive  the  Holy  Com- 
munion every  Sunday,  Holy  Day  and  Saints'  Day. 
Frequency  of  reception  is  in  accord  with  primi- 
tive practice.  It  should  stimulate  the  spiritual 
life  and  incite  to  more  careful  preparation  for 
the  Holy  Mysteries.  Nor  should  it  be  forgotten, 
that  while  attendance  at  the  Celebration  of  the 
Holy  Eucharist  is  helpful,  nevertheless  presence 
for  worship  will  never  compensate  for  the  neg- 
lect of  Communion. 

REVERENCE 

How  careful  we  should  be  to  be  reverent. 
Sometimes  the  Clergy  as  well  as  the  peo- 
ple need  this  caution.  Familiarity  with 
sacred  things  should  conduce  to  greater,  not  less 
reverence.  Nothing  shows  forth  our  love  of 
God,  of  His  Sanctuary  and  of  His  Service  more 
than  reverence.  It  is  the  spirit  that  makes 
God's  worship  beautiful.  It  witnesses  to  our 
realization  of  His  Presence.  It  makes  others 
honour  His  Church,  and  Sacraments.  How  care- 
ful should  we  be  to  refrain  from  conversation, 

*  S.  Matthew  v.  8. 


252  SHORT   READINGS 

to  move  softly  about,  to  keep  from  looking 
round,  remembering  that  the  Church  is  the 
House  of  Prayer.  Nor  is  service  mechanically 
done,  acceptable  to  God.  It  must  be  reverently 
rendered,  with  the  heart  going  with  the  words 
and  the  acts  ;  we  must  believe  and  feel  what  we 
say  ;  and  we  must  reverently  follow  the  service 
and  sermon  with  the  spirit  and  with  the  under- 
standing, doing  all  to  the  Glory  of  God,  as  in 
His  Presence.  Above  all,  at  the  solemn  mo- 
ment of  the  Consecration  of  the  Eucharist 
should  we  kneel  in  lowly  reverence  for,  ' '  the 
Lord  is  in  His  Holy  Temple,  let  all  the  earth  keep 
silence  before  Hwi.'' ^  Without  Reverence  we 
cannot  really  worship.  It  means  the  remem- 
brance of  God,  the  abandonment  of  self.  An 
irreligious  person  cannot  have  true  reverence. 
Let  us  then  cultivate  religion,  let  us  realize  the 
meaning  and  object  of  our  worship  and  let  rever- 
ence control  our  every  thought,  word  and  act. 
Let  there  be  no  hurry,  no  ostentation,  no  excess, 
but  let  us  quietly,  humbly,  lovingly  show 
forth  reverence  in  all  we  do,  be  it  in  dim 
Cathedral  aisle  or  in  little  country  church,  be  it 
among  the  rich  and  mighty  or  among  the  poor 
and  lowly,  for  reverence  is  not  before  men  but 
in  the  sight  of  God,  unto  to  Whom  all  hearts  are 
open,  all  desires  known  and  from  Whom  no 
secrets  are  hid. 

DANGER    OF    INTELLECTUAL  PRIDE 

MANY  souls  are  lost  through  pride  and  pre- 
sumption.    Some  aspire  to  know  more 
than  God  chooses  to  reveal.     Others  pre- 
sume on  the  knowledge  that  God  vouchsafes,  and 

^  Habakkuk  ii.  20. 


SHORT  READINGS  253 

led  by  intellectual  pride  make  shipwreck  of  their 
lives  and  the  lives  of  others.  They  forget  that 
God  is  from  above,  man  from  below.  They  do 
not  reflect  that  God's  ways  are  not  our  ways,  that 
they  are  ^^  past  finding  out."  ^  God  reveals  His 
Truth  as  we  are  able  to  receive  it,  "  here  a  little, 
there  a  little,'''  ^  line  upon  line,  precept  upon  pre- 
cept. Faith,  love  and  humility  make  the  dispo- 
sitions for  learning  of  GOD  and  His  Ways,  for 
God  "  hast  hid  these  things  from  the  wise  and 
prndent  and  hast  revealed  thejn  unto  babes,''''  ^  to 
those  who  look  up  into  the  Father's  Face  with 
the  trust  and  faith  of  a  little  child.  Spiritual 
things  are  only  discerned  by  the  spiritually 
minded,  and  very  often  a  poor  peasant  knows 
more  of  the  Love  of  God  and  the  Comfort  of 
Religion  than  the  mighty  Prince  or  the  great 
scholar.  Profound  learning  and  a  brilliant  in- 
tellect do  not  in  themselves  make  one  acceptable 
to  God.  The  unconsecrated  mind  is  at  enmity 
with  Him.  It  is  right  to  study,  to  learn  of  GoD 
and  His  Ways,  but  one  must  do  so  prayerfully 
and  humbly,  asking  the  guidance  of  the  Holy 
Ghost,  acknowledging  the  authority  of  the 
Catholic  Church  and  cultivating  that  "  meek  and 
quiet  spirit  which  is  in  the  Sight  of  God  of  great 
price''' ^  Not  to  the  worldly  wise  but  to  the 
meek  and  lowly  of  heart  doth  God  reveal  Him- 
self. 

FAITH  AND  HUMILITY 

WE  should  ever  remember  that  Faith  and 
Humility  must  go  hand  in  hand.     Re- 
ligion that  puffs  one  up  with  spiritual 
pride  is  not  the  Religion  of  Jesus  Christ.    Faith 

^  Romans  xi,  33.  '  Isaiah  xxviii.  10. 

^  S.  Matthew  xi.  25.  *  i  S.  Peter  iii.  4 


254  SHORT  READINGS 

to  be  real  must  be  fruitful  in  good  works,  for  ''by 
their  fruits  ye  shall  knozv  themy  '  Yet  those 
most  abounding  in  good  works  for  the  Master 
must  realize  that  they  are  but  ' '  unprofitable  serv- 
ant s.""  ^  They  will  show  forth  Humility  if  they 
look  lovingly  on  those  about  them,  not  thinking  of 
themselves  more  highly  than  they  ought  to  think, ^ 
but  honouring  and  respecting  others,  whose  lives 
may  seem  less  spiritual  than  their  own.  Hu- 
mility is  also  shown  in  a  loving,  trustful  Faith. 
We  need  to  love  God,  not  to  speculate  about 
Him,  to  believe  the  things  pertaining  to  Him, 
not  to  understand  them,  to  live  the  CHRiST-Life, 
not  to  talk  about  it.  We  must  do  all  reverently 
and  humbly  for  love  of  Jesus,  for  the  Glory  of 
God.  We  must  not  think  to  understand  the 
mysteries  of  the  Kingdom  of  Heaven,  for  "  Jtoza 
we  see  through  a  glass  darkly,  but  then  face  to 
facey  ^  S.  Augustine  says,  "  first  believe,  then 
understand,"  and  the  Master  tells  us,  ''Blessed 
are  they  that  have  not  seen  and  yet  have  believed^  ' 
The  Church  is  wiser  than  we,  for  the  Holy 
Ghost  speaks  through  her.  Let  us  believe  and 
hold  fast  the  "Faith  once  delivered  to  the 
saints y  ^  that  at  the  Last  Day,  faith  may  be 
lost  in  sight,  and  we  may  see  God  face  to  face. 

^  S.  Matthew  vii.  20.  *  i  Corinthians  xiii.  12. 

^  S.  Luke  xvii.  10.  ^  S.  John  xx.  29. 

^  Romans  xii.  3.  *  S.  Jude  3. 


THE  CHURCH'S   SEASONS 


Advent,  which  begins  the  Church  year,  com- 
memorates the  First  Coming  of  Christ  as  the 
Saviour  of  mankind  and  anticipates  His  Second 
Coming  as  the  Judge  of  the  world.  It  also  tells 
of  His  Continuous  Coming  in  Sacramental  Grace. 
Advent  is  a  penitential  season,  and  should  be 
used  a,s  a  preparation  for  Christmas.  On  the 
four  Sundays  in  Advent  special  sermons  are 
sometimes  preached  on  Death,  Judgment, 
Heaven  and  Hell. 

Christmas  Day,  the  Festival  of  the  Holy 
Nativity,  commemorates  our  Saviour's  Birth, 
when  in  the  humble  grotto  stable  at  Bethlehem, 
He  Who  is  the  Maker  and  Monarch  of  all,  was 
Born  of  a  pure  Virgin  and  laid  in  the  lowly 
Manger,  the  Infant  Redeemer,  the  Word  made 
Flesh.  Christmas  is  one  of  the  greatest  of  all 
Church  Festivals,  and  on  it  all  the  faithful  are 
expected  to  receive  the  Holy  Communion. 

S.  Stephen's  Day,  S.  John  Evangelist's 
Day,  and  Holy  Innocents'  Day  follow  to 
show  forth  the  three  kinds  of  martyrs :  S.  Stephen 
a  martyr  in  will  and  deed,  since  he  was  willing 
to  die  and  did  die  for  Christ  ;  S.  John  a  mar- 
tyr in  will  only,  since  GOD  did  not  call  him  to 
a  violent  death  ;  and  the  Holy  Innocents,  little 
children,  martyrs  in  deed  only,  since  not  old 
enough  to  will  do  die. 

255 


256  THE   CHURCH'S  SEASONS 

The  Circumcision  commemorates  our  Lord 
when  eight  days  old,  conforming  to  this  require- 
ment of  the  Jewish  Law,  and  receiving  the 
name  Jesus.  This  Name,  given  by  the  Angel 
when  He  was  conceived,  is  that  Name  at  which 
every  knee  should  bow.  ' 

The  Epiphany  season  has  six  Sundays  ap- 
pointed for  its  observance.  It  commemorates 
the  Manifestation  or  showing  forth  of  Christ  to 
the  Gentiles,  noting  three  special  instances  :  (i) 
at  the  Visit  of  the  Wise  Men,  Who  did  homage 
to  the  Infant  King  and  offered  to  Him  Gold, 
Frankincense  and  Myrrh,  thus  acknowledging 
Him  as  God,  as  Priest  and  as  Man  ;  (2)  at  the 
Marriage  of  Cana,  when  our  Lord  worked  the 
Miracle  of  turning  water  into  wine  ;  (3)  at 
Christ's  Baptism,  when  there  was  the  revela- 
tion of  the  Trinity,  the  Father  speaking  from 
heaven,  the  Son  coming  up  from  the  water,  and 
the  Holy  Ghost  descending  as  a  Dove, 

The  Purification  of  S.  Mary  the  Virgin, 
occurring  on  February  2,  commemorates  the 
Presentation  of  Christ  in  the  Temple,  in  fulfil- 
ment of  the  Jewish  Law.  Its  ancient  name  was 
Candlemas,  from  the  practice  of  carrying  candles 
in  procession  to  show  forth  that  our  Lord  was 
"  a  Light  to  lighten  the  Gentiles.''''  ^ 

Septuagesima,  Sexagesima  and  Quinqua- 
GESIMA,  are  three  Sundays,  roughly  indicating 
seventy,  sixty  and  fifty  days  before  Easter,  pre- 
paring us  for  the  observance  of  Lent. 

^  Philippians  ii.  10, 
^  S.  Luke  ii.  32. 


THE  CHURCH'S  SEASONS  257 

Lent  is  a  penitential  season  of  forty  days,  ex- 
clusive of  Sundays.  It  commemorates  our 
Lord's  Temptation  and  Fast  in  the  Wilderness. 
It  should  be  observed,  as  far  as  possible,  as  a 
time  for  retirement  from  worldly  affairs  and 
pleasures  ;  for  careful  self-examination  and  con- 
fession to  God,  for  special  Prayer,  Fasting  and 
Almsgiving,  for  the  uplifting  of  the  Spiritual  Life 
and  for  meditation  on  the  Cross,  on  the  Love 
of  God  and  the  awfulness  of  sin.  Ash  Wed- 
nesday begins  the  season  of  Lent,  and  is  a 
strict  fast.  Its  name  arose  from  the  ancient 
custom  of  signing  the  Cross  with  ashes  on  the 
heads  of  the  penitents,  and  reminding  them  of 
the  certainty  of  death.  The  preceding  day  is 
known  as  Shrove  Tuesday,  from  the  practice  of 
obtaining  absolution  or  being  "  shriven  "  on  that 
day.  The  fourth  Sunday  in  Lent  is  sometimes 
called  Midlent  or  Refreshment  Sunday,  from 
the  Gospel  which  tells  of  the  feeding  of  the 
multitude.  The  fifth  Sunday  is  Passion  Sun- 
day and  begins  Passion  Week,  so  called  because 
we  then  come  specially  to  think  of  the  Suffering 
of  Christ. 

The  Annunciation  of  the  Blessed  Virgin 
Mary  occurs  in  Lent  on  March  25,  and  is  kept 
in  honour  of  the  Incarnation  of  our  Lord,  Who 
was  conceived  by  the  Holy  Ghost  of  the  Virgin 
Mary,  the  Angel  Gabriel  announcing  to  Mary 
her  blessed  privilege.  This  festival  is  sometimes 
known  as  Lady  Day. 

Palm  Sunday  is  the  last  Sunday  in  Lent,  and 
is  so  named  from  the  time-honoured  custom  of 
processions  with  palms,  in  commemoration  of 
our  Lord's  entrance  into  Jerusalem  amid  the 


258  THE  church's  seasons 

strawing  of  palm  branches  and  the  shouts  of 
Hosanna.  The  custom  of  honouring  GoD  by 
strawing  and  waving  pahii  branches  is  one  of 
Divine  appointment.^ 

Holy  Week,  sometimes  known  as  "the  still 
week,"  which  Palm  Sunday  begins,  is  so  desig- 
nated because  it  commemorates  the  last  solemn 
events  in  the  Life  of  our  Most  Holy  Redeemer. 
None  who  refuse  to  keep  Holy  Week  rightly 
rejoice  on  Easter. 

Maundy  Thursday,  occurring  in  Holy 
Week,  is  so  named  from  the  words  "  Dies  Man- 
dati,"  the  Day  of  the  Great  Commandment,  for 
it  commemorates  our  Lord's  Listitution  of  the 
Holy  Communion,  and  His  command  "  Do  this 
in  remembrance  of  Me."  The  faithful  are  ex- 
pected to  receive  the  Blessed  Sacrament  of  our 
Lord's  Body  and  Blood  on  this  day.  Maundy 
Thursday  is  a  Festival  in  that  it  is  in  special 
honour  of  the  Institution  of  the  Eucharist,  but 
is  also  a  Fast,  since  it  commemorates  the  begin- 
ning of  the  Passion. 

Good  Friday  is  the  Day  of  the  Cross,  the 
"Still  Day"  commemorating  our  Lord's  Passion 
and  Crucifixion,  when  on  the  Cross,  He  Died 
for  the  sins  of  the  whole  world,  Suffering  as 
Man,  Atoning  as  God.  It  is  the  most  solemn 
time  of  the  whole  year  and  a  strict  fast.  There 
should  be  no  one  who  would  not  keep  this  day 
at  the  foot  of  the  Cross,  humbling  himself  be- 
fore God,  sorrowing  at  that  awful  spectacle  of 
Suffering,  while  rejoicing  in  the  Redemption. 
Only  with  our  sins  laid  in  humble  penitence  at 
the  Feet  of  Jesus,  can  we  truly  rise  to  the  peace 
and  joy  of  Easter  Day. 

^  Leviticus  xxiii.  40. 
17 


THE  CHURCH'S  SEASONS  259 

Holy  Saturday  or  Easter  Even  commemor- 
ates our  Lord's  Body  resting  in  the  tomb.  It 
should  be  used  as  far  as  possible,  as  a  time  of 
retirement,  in  preparation  for  the  Easter  Com- 
munion. 

Easter  is  the  queen  of  all  the  Church's  Feasts. 
It  commemorates  our  Lord's  Resurrection  from 
the  dead,  and  looks  forward  to  our  resurrection 
at  the  Last  Day.  It  should  mean  for  each  of 
the  faithful  a  better,  holier,  purer,  risen  life,  "  If 
ye  then  be  risen  with  Christ,  seek  those  things 
-which  are  above.'"'  ^  As  the  Resurrection  is  the 
most  blesseddoctrineof  our  holy  Religion,  Easter 
Day  is  observed  with  the  greatest  rejoicing  and 
ceremony.  The  Monday  and  Tuesday  in  Easter 
Week,  the  Sunday  following,  often  called  Low 
Sunday,  because  the  high  note  of  rejoicing  is 
somewhat  lowered,  with  the  rest  of  the  forty 
days  following  Easter,  continue  the  commemor- 
ation of  the  Resurrection  joy.  All  of  the  faithful 
should  communicate  at  Easter. 

Ascension  Day,  or  Holy  Thursday,  is  the 
fortieth  day  after  Easter,  and  commemorates 
our  Lord's  Ascension  into  Heaven,  where  He 
now  Sitteth  in  Glory  at  the  Right  Hand  of  the 
Father.  Ancient  tradition  held  that  as  Christ 
ascended,  the  nine  choirs  of  angels  chanted 
antiphonally  until  our  Lord  entered  into  His 
Glory  on  Whitsunday. 

Whitsunday,  or  Pentecost,  commemorates 
the  Descent  of  the  Holy  Ghost  upon  the 
Apostles,  and  the  beginning  of  their  labours  in 
the  world.  It  is  one  of  the  great  festivals  of 
the  Church  on  which  all  should  communicate. 

^  Colossians  iii.  i. 


26o  THE  CHURCH'S   SEASONS 

The  two  following  days,  known  as  Monday  and 
Tuesday  in  Whitsun-week,  are  also  solemnly 
observed. 

Trinity  Sunday  is  the  octave  of  Whitsun- 
day and  is  observed  in  special  honour  of  the 
Blessed  Trinity  :  One  God,  Father,  Son  and 
Holy  Ghost.  It  begins  the  long  Trinity 
season,  in  which  there  are  twenty-five  Sundays, 
the  last  Sunday  being  known  in  the  American 
Church  as  the  Sunday  next  before  Advent. 

The  Transfiguration  of  Christ  is  ob- 
served on  August  6  and  commemorates  the 
revelation  of  His  Glory,  when  on  the  mount,  in 
the  presence  of  S.  Peter,  S.  John  and  S.  James 
a  cloud  overshadowed  Him,  and  Moses  and 
Elijah  appeared  with  Him.  His  unveiled  Glory 
was  then  seen  in  all  its  majesty  and  splendour. 

Ember  Days  are  days  devoted  to  special  in- 
tercession for  those  about  to  be  ordained  to  the 
Sacred  Ministry  and  for  the  Clergy  generally. 
They  are  the  Wednesday,  Friday  and  Saturday 
after  December  13,  the  first  Sunday  in  Lent, 
Whitsunday  and  September  14.  They  are  ob- 
served as  fasts. 

Rogation  Days  are  the  Monday,  Tuesday 
and  Wednesday  before  Ascension  and  are  de- 
voted to  special  asking  of,  or  petitions  to,  GOD. 
They  were  once  observed  by  processions  singing 
Litanies.     They  are  kept  as  special  fast  days. 

All  Saints'  Day  is  November  i,  and  com- 
memorates those  who  "  rest  from  their  labours," 
in  the  other  world,  and  teaches  us  to  rejoice  in 
the  Communion  of  Saints.  The  day  which  fol- 
lows is  known  as  All  Souls'  Day,  and  is  used 


THE   church's  seasons  261 

for   special    intercession    for  the  repose  of   the 
souls  of  the  faithful  departed. 

Saints  Days.  The  Prayer  Book  also  com- 
memorates by  Special  Collect,  Epistle  and 
Gospel  for  the  Communion  Office,  other  great 
Saints  or  Martyrs  as  follows  :  S.  Andrew,  S. 
Thomas,  the  Conversion  of  S.  Paul,  S.  Mat- 
thias, S.  Mark,  S.  Philip  and  S.  James,  S.  Bar- 
nabas, S.  John  Baptist,  S.  Peter,  S.  James,  S. 
Bartholomew,  S.  Matthew,  S.  Michael  and  all 
Angels,  S.  Luke,  S.  Simon  and  S.  Jude.  The 
Church  of  England  also  commemorates,  by  men- 
tion of  their  names  in  the  Kalendar,  other  holy 
personages  or  remarkable  events. 

Sundays  are  kept  as  festivals  in  honour  of 
the  Resurrection.  It  seems  fitting,  in  remem- 
brance of  the  great  doctrine  of  the  Resurrection, 
that  the  observance  of  the  Sabbath  or  seventh 
day  should  have  been  transferred,  as  it  was  by 
the  Church,  to  Sunday  or  the  first  day. 

Fridays  are  observed  as  days  of  fast  or  ab- 
stinence in  remembrance  of  the  Crucifixion  of 
Christ.  They  should  always  be  kept  as  peni- 
tential days,  and  worldly  pleasures  and  social 
enjoyments  should  not  be  indulged  in. 

Vigils,  or  Evens  of  Festivals  are  also  set 
forth  in  the  Church  of  England  to  be  observed. 


CHRISTIAN    VIRTUES    AND 
DUTIES,  ETC. 


THE  THEOLOGICAL   VIRTUES  : 

Faith,  by  which  we  believe  God's  Revel- 
ation. 

Hope,  by  which  we  trust  God's  Promises. 

Charity,  by  which  we  love  God  above  all, 
and  our  neighbour  as  ourself. 

THE   CARDINAL   VIRTUES  : 

Prudence,  which  makes  us  choose  between 
right  and  wrong. 

yustice,  which  makes  us  fair  and  honour- 
able in  all  we  do. 

Temperance,  which  makes  us  rightly  use 
our  powers  and  privileges  and  refrain 
from  wrong  indulgence. 

Fortitude,  which  makes  us  have  moral 
courage  and  suffer  pain  and  adversity 
with  patience. 

THE    CHRISTIAN    DUTIES  : 

Prayer  :  to  worship,  thank  and  call  upon 

Almighty  GoD. 
Fasting :  to  deny  ourselves  and  discipline 

the  body,  as  an  aid  in  the  spiritual  life. 
Almsgiving- :  to  offer  God  part  of  what  He 

gives  us  to  use  for  His  Glory. 

262 


CHRISTIAN  VIRTUE;S  AND  DUTIEIS      263 


THE    ECCLESIASTICAL    DUTIES  : 

To    keep   the    Festivals    and    Fasts    of  the 

Church. 
To    observe   the   commands,    customs    and 

ceremonies  of  the  Church. 
To  attend  public  worship  in  Church. 
To  receive  the  Holy  Communion. 


THE   SEVEN    GIFTS   OF   THE   HOLY    GHOST  : 

Wisdom,  which  turns  us  to  GoD. 
Understanding,  which  apprehends  the  truth. 
Counsel,  which  inclines  us  to  do  right. 
Ghostly  Strength,  which  gives  us  spiritual 

power. 
Knowledge,  which  shows  God's  Word  and 

Will. 
Trtie  Godliness,  which  keeps  us  pure  and 

holy. 
Holy  Fear,  which  excites  love  and  reverence. 

THE   TWELVE   FRUITS    OF   THE    SPIRIT  : 

Love.    Longsufifering.   Truth.  Modesty. 

Joy.       Gentleness.         Meekness.   Temperance. 
Peace.   Goodness.  Patience.     Chastity. 


THE   SEVEN  SPIRITUAL  WORKS   OF   MERCY  : 

(i)  To  instruct  the  ig-    (4)  To  comfort  the  af- 
norant.  flicted. 

(2)  To     counsel     the    (5)  To  endure  injury, 
doubtful.  (6)  To  forgive  wrongs. 

(3)  To  correct  offend-    (7)  To  pray  for  others, 
ers. 


264      CHRISTIAN   VIRTUES  AND  DUTIES 


THE    SEVEN    CORPORAL   WORKS    OF    MERCY 


(i)  To  feed  the  hungry  (4)  To  visit  the  sick, 

and    give    drink    to  (5)  To  help  prisoners, 

the  thirsty.  (6)  To  visit  the  father- 

(2)  To     clothe     the         less  and  widows, 
naked.  (7)  To  bury  the  dead. 

(3)  To    shelter    the 
stranger. 


THE    SEVEN 
CAPITAL  SINS. 

Pride. 

Covetousness. 

Lust. 

Envy. 

Gluttony. 

Anger. 

Sloth. 


THE  SEVEN 
GODLY  VIRTUES. 

Humility. 

Liberality. 

Purity. 

Charity  or  Love. 

Temperance. 

Forgiveness. 

Diligence. 


WAYS   OF   PARTICIPATING    IN  THE   SINS   OF 
OTHERS : 

By  evil  counsel.       By  command.  By  consent. 

By  provocation.        By  silence.  By  sharing. 

By  concealment.      By  flattery.  By  praise. 
By  defending  the  sin. 


SIX   SINS   AGAINST   THE   HOLY   GHOST: 

(i)  Presuming  on  God's  Mercy. 

(2)  Despair  of  God's  Forgiveness, 

(3)  Denying  God's  Truth. 

(4)  Envy  of  another's  good. 

(5)  Persistence  in  sin. 

(6)  Final  Impenitence. 


CHRISTIAN  VIRTUieS  AND   DUTIES      265 


SEVEN    STEPS    IN    SIN  : 


(i)   Suggestion.  (4)   Act. 

(2)  Pleasure.  (5)   Habit. 

(3)  Consent.  (6)  Slavery. 

(7)  Spiritual  Death. 


TWO    SACRAMENTS    GENERALLY    NECESSARY   TO 
SALVATION. 

(i)  Holy  Baptism.  (2)  Holy  Communion. 

Five  other  sacraments  or  states  of 
LIFE  not  necessary  to  salvation  but  having  both 
inward  and  outward  parts  pertaining  to  Holy 
Mysteries  : 

(i)  Holy  Orders.  (3)  Holy  Matrimony. 

(2)  Confirmation.  (4)  Penance. 

(5)  Unction  of  the  Sick, 


requisites   for    RIGHTLY   RECEIVING   HOLY 
COMMUNION  :  ^ 

(i)  Faith.  (2)  Love.  (3)  Repentance. 


THREE    THINGS    NECESSARY     TO    REPENTANCE 

(i)  In  the  heart  :  Contrition. 

(2)  In  the  mouth  :  Confession. 

(3)  In  the  life  :  Amendment. 

^  S,  Chrysostom. 


266    CHRISTIAN  virtue;s  and  duties 

TIMES    THE    CHURCH    URGES    THE    FAITHFUL 
TO    BE    PRESENT   AT    SERVICE   AND    IF    POS- 
SIBLE   RECEIVE   THE    HOLY 
COMMUNION.     ' 

On  Holy  Days  :  the  Nativity,  the  Circumcision, 
the  Epiphany,  the  Presentation  in  the 
Temple,  Easter,  the  Ascension,  Whit- 
sunday, Trinity,  the  Transfiguration. 

Oit  Saints'  Days  :  the  Festivals  of  vS.  Andrew, 
S.  Thomas,  S.  Stephen,  S.  John  the 
Evangelist,  Holy  Innocents,  Conversion 
of  S.  Paul,  S.  Matthias,  the  Annuncia- 
tion of  B.  V.  M.,  S.  Mark,  S.  Philip 
and  S.  James,  S.  Barnabas,  S.  John 
the  Baptist,  S.  Peter,  S.  James,  •  S. 
Bartholomew,  S.  Matthew,  S.  Michael 
and  all  Angels,  S.  Luke,  S.  Simon  and 
S.  Jude,  All  Saints  Day. 

All  Sundays  in  the  year  and  also  on  Ash  Wed- 
nesday, during  Holy  Week  (except  on 
Good  Friday,  when  there  is  no  celebra- 
tion), Monday  and  Tuesday  in  Easter 
Week  and  Monday  and  Tuesday  after 
Whitsunday. 

SPECIAL   DAYS   TO   KEEP  : 

All  Sundays,  (i)  by  thinking  of  Christ's  Resur- 
rection and  Ascension,  (2)  by  receiving 
the  Holy  Communion,  and  (3)  by  contem- 
plating Heaven. 


^  Following  the  example  of  the  Primitive  Church, 
when  the  faithful  received  daily,  the  Anglican  Church 
urges  frequent  Communion,  each  Communion  being  the 
best  preparation  for  the  next  Communion.  It  makes 
it  obligatory  to  receive  on  Christmas,  Easter  and 
Whitsunday. 


CHRISTIAN  VIRTUES  ANE  DUTIES      267 

All  Fridays,  (i)  by  meditating  on  Christ's 
Passion,  (2)  by  reflecting  on  our  coming 
Death  and  Judgment,  (3)  and  by  per- 
forming penances. 

SOME   TYPES    OF   THE    HOLY    COMMUNION  : 

The    Tree   of  Life    in    the   Garden   of   Eden, 

which  is  thought  to   have   borne   sacra- 
mental fruit. 
The  Offering  of  Bread  and  Wine  by  Melchiz- 

edek.  King  of  Salem  and  Priest  of  the 

Most  High  God. 
The  Manna   in  the   Wilderness,   or  the  Bread 

from  Heaven,  the  Angel's  Food. 
The    Passover,   or    the    sacrificial   lamb  of   the 

Israelites. 
The  Feeding  of  the   Multitude,  when  Christ 

blessed  and  distributed  the  Loaves  and 

Fishes. 
The   Water  and  the  Blood,  which   flowed  from 

our   Lord's   Side   as    He  hung   on   the 

Cross. 

THE    FOUR    LAST   THINGS  : 

Death.        Judgment.        Heaven.        Hell. 

THE    SEVEN    PENITENTIAL    PSALMS  : 

vi.     xxxii.     xxxviii.     li.     cii.     cxxx.      cxliii. 

FOUR    NOTES    OF    THE    CHURCH  : 

One.         Holy.         Catholic.         Apostolic. 

THREE   TESTS    OF    CATHOLICITY  : 

Antiquity.  Universality.  Consent. 


268      CHRISTIAN   VIRTUES   AND   DUTIES 


THE    DUTY    OF  A  CHRISTIAN  :    TO    FORM    A    RULE 
OF    LIFE    IN    ORDER   TO  : 


Follow  Jesus, 
Discipline  the  body, 
Resist  temptation, 
Repent  of  sin, 
Obtain  forgiveness. 
Use  time  rightly, 
Escape  damnation, 


Set  a  good  example. 

Cultivate  holiness, 

Save  others. 

Be  resigned  in  sorrow, 

Despise  the  world. 

Save  his  soul, 

Win  Heaven, 


And  in  all  things  Glorify  God. 

THE   FAITHFUL   DEPARTED. 

"  Blessed  are  the  dead  which  die  in  the  Lord 
from  henceforth  :  yea,  saith  the  Spirit,  that  they 
may  rest  from  their  labours  :  and  their  works  do 
follow  them."  ^ 

THE  SEVEN  WORDS  FROM  THE  CROSS. 

1st  Word 


2nd  Word  : 

3rd  Word  : 

4th  Word  : 

5th  Word  : 
6th  Word  : 
7  th  Word  : 


*  Revelation  xiv.  13. 
'^  S.  Luke  xxiii.  34. 

^  S.  Luke  xxiii.  43. 

*  S.  John  xix.  26,  27. 

^  S.  Matthew  xxvii.  46. 


'  Father,  Forgive  them,  for  they 
know  not  what  they  do."  ^ 

"  Verily  I  say  unto  thee  :  To-day 
shalt  thou  be  with  Me  in  Par- 
adise." ^ 

"  Woman,  Behold  thy  son  :  Be- 
hold thy  mother.  "4 

"  My  God,  my  God,  why  hast 
Thou  forsaken  Me  ?  "  ^ 

"I  thirst."  6 

"  It  is  finished.""' 

"  Father,  into  Thy  Hands  I  com- 
mend My  Spirit."  ^ 

®  S.  John  xix.  28. 


^  S.  John  xix.  30.. 
*  S.  Luke  xxiii.  46. 


St.  Mark  xv.  34. 


CHRISTIAN  VIRTUES   AND   DUTIES      269 
THE    BEATITUDES  :   ' 

Blessed  are  the  poor  in  spirit  :   for  theirs  is  the 

Kingdom  of  Heaven  ; 
Blessed  are  they  that  mourn  :   for  they  shall  be 

comforted  ; 
Blessed  are  the  meek  :  for  they  shall  inherit  the 

earth  ; 
Blessed   are  they  which   do  hunger  and   thirst 

after    righteousness :     for    they    shall    be 

filled  ; 
Blessed  are  the  merciful  :  for  they  shall  obtain 

mercy  ; 
Blessed  are  the  pure  in  heart  :  for  they  shall  see 

God  ; 
Blessed  are  the  peacemakers  :  for  they  shall  be 

called  the  children  of  GOD  ; 
Blessed    are    they   which    are    persecuted     for 

righteousness'    sake  :     for    theirs    is    the 

Kingdom  of  Heaven  ; 
Blessed  are  ye,  when  men  shall  revile  you  and 

persecute  you    and  shall  say  all  manner 

of  evil  against  you  falsely  for  My  Sake. 

OUR    lord's    welcome    to    the     FAITHFUL   AT 
THE    LAST   DAY. 

"  Come  ye  blessed  of  My  Father,  inherit  the 
kingdom  prepared  for  you  from  the  foundation 
of  the  world."  '^ 

"And  they  that  be  wise  shall  shine  as  the 
brightness  of  the  firmament  ;  and  they  that  turn 
many  to  righteousness,  as  the  stars  forever  and 
ever.    -^ 


^  S.  Matthew  v.  ^  S.  Matthew  xxvi.  34. 

3  Daniel  xii.  3. 


ceton   Theologtc.^ 


1    1012  01004  4396 


